Karahantepe’s hidden relics leopard bones, fire pits in Türkiye reveal Neolithic mysteries
At the excavation site in Karahantepe, Sanliurfa, numerous wolf jaws, leopard, vulture, and fox bones, as well as fire pits, were discovered. Stone vessels and plates were also uncovered inside the structure, Türkiye November 8, 2024. (AA Photo)
A wealth of animal bones, including those of leopards, wolves, vultures and foxes, has emerged from recent excavations in Karahantepe, a major Neolithic site in Türkiye. Archaeologists also uncovered numerous hearths within these ancient structures, potentially pointing to unique communal practices.
Professor Necmi Karul, head of the Karahantepe excavation, reported that the 2024 dig season has concluded, revealing notable discoveries that deepen understanding of the site’s Neolithic significance. Karahantepe, home to over 250 standing T-shaped monoliths, has captured global attention for its intricate structures and artifacts dating back thousands of years.
Animal bones, stone vessels enrich understanding of Neolithic life
Archaeological efforts focused heavily on uncovering the site’s communal structures, with 14 separate areas explored this year. “We continued our work on a significant public complex previously identified,” explained Karul. “We found central buildings alongside smaller structures intended for public use. In one building, we reached the floor level and encountered a room divided by standing stones. The space was filled with red sterile soil, and stone vessels and plates, crafted from black chlorite stone and decorated with geometric and animal motifs, were placed inside.”
Among the findings were a variety of animal bones, including wolf jaws, leopard, vultures and fox bones. Evidence suggests fox skins may have been left within this context as part of ritualistic or symbolic practices.
Additional items like beads and baton-shaped stone tools were also uncovered, painting a vivid picture of Neolithic life in the region.
Discoveries of hearths hint at culinary, communal functions at Karahantepe
A particularly striking aspect of the site is the presence of numerous hearths, indicating that the structure may have been a gathering place with culinary functions. Professor Karul noted, “The numerous hearths, along with large bull horns and skulls embedded in the floor, suggest this area was used for cooking and likely played a key role in communal life. We also found what appear to be ovens within the structure.”
The abundance of hearths marks a first for Karahantepe, providing insights into the layout and function of these early communal spaces and their possible roles in ritual or culinary practices.
The findings at Karahantepe continue to underscore the region’s importance, giving researchers crucial glimpses into ancient daily life and ritualistic behaviors in Neolithic Türkiye.
