The towering rock blocks, dating back over 11,000 years according to C14 radiocarbon analysis, stand as silent sentinels at Göbekli Tepe, a remarkable archaeological site nestled on the border between Turkey and Syria. These massive pillars are remnants of a mysterious civilisation that predates known history, yet remains nameless. Despite their age, the sophisticated builders of Göbekli Tepe left behind intriguing clues that challenge our understanding of ancient societies.

Unlike later civilisations, the inhabitants of Göbekli Tepe did not engage in agriculture or animal husbandry. Analysis of seeds found on site reveals that they relied on wild plants for sustenance, while the abundance of game meat suggests lavish feasts were a common occurrence. Intriguingly, the stone statues at the centre of the circular structures are adorned with loincloths, indicating a moderate climate during the settlement’s heyday.

While the purpose of Göbekli Tepe remains a subject of debate, the engravings adorning the site offer tantalising hints. Carved into the walls are depictions of celestial beings and ‘snakes’ descending from the sky, a possible reference to a catastrophic event that shook the ancient world. Astronomers suggest that around 12,000 years ago, Earth was pummeled by a barrage of comets or asteroids, leading to widespread destruction.

It is theorised that Göbekli Tepe may serve as a memorial to this cataclysmic event, commemorating the ‘fire snakes’ that rained down from above. Surprisingly, no burials or depictions of deities have been found at the site, challenging traditional notions of ancient religious practices. The absence of a reliable water source also raises questions about the practicality of sustaining a large population in this arid region.

As we unravel the mysteries of Göbekli Tepe, we are left pondering the origins and customs of its enigmatic builders. Were they nomads or part of a larger civilisation? Where did they come from, and where did they disappear to? The ancient stones of Göbekli Tepe stand as mute witnesses to a bygone era, beckoning us to delve deeper into the secrets of humanity’s distant past.