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In recent years, the ancient site of Gobekli Tepe, the world’s oldest known temple complex, has not only fascinated archaeologists but also captivated a wider audience, thanks in large part to one influential voice: Joe Rogan.
With millions of listeners worldwide, the podcast has become a powerful platform for discussing ancient history and sometimes controversial theories.
British author Graham Hancock, author of "Ancient Apocalypse," and YouTube investigator Jimmy Corsetti have appeared on Rogan’s show to share bold claims about Gobekli Tepe.
They suggest the site was built by a 'lost civilization' destroyed by a prehistoric catastrophe, ideas that challenge mainstream archaeological views.
NPR recently reported that Dr. Lee Clare, who has led the excavations at Gobekli Tepe for over a decade, has faced growing challenges as conspiracy theories spread online.
He emphasized that the slow progress in uncovering the site is not due to secrecy or incompetence, but a careful and methodical approach aimed at preserving the fragile ruins for future generations.
“Archaeology is not like mining or construction,” Clare explained. “Every time you remove a layer of soil or a stone, you potentially lose a part of history forever. It’s irreversible. We must document everything meticulously to understand the context of each finding.”
Clare also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Teams of experts in geology, chemistry, anthropology and even climate science work together to piece together Gobekli Tepe’s story.
This complexity means that discoveries can take years to confirm and interpret correctly.
2 min read
