Nestled in the Konya Plain of present-day Turkey, Çatalhöyük is one of the most fascinating archaeological sites in the world. Dating back to the Neolithic and Chalcolithic periods, this proto-city offers a glimpse into early human civilization and its evolution over thousands of years.

A Unique Urban Landscape

Unlike conventional cities, Çatalhöyük lacked streets or alleyways. Instead, its mud-brick houses were built in a dense, interconnected fashion, with entrances located on the rooftops. Residents navigated the settlement using ladders, creating a distinctive urban environment.

Life and Culture

The people of Çatalhöyük were skilled in agriculture, cultivating wheat and barley to sustain their growing population. The settlement housed between 3,000 and 8,000 people, forming an egalitarian society where resources were shared. Rituals played a significant role in daily life—many of the deceased were buried beneath the floors of their homes, and animal skulls were incorporated into architectural designs.

The Mystery of Abandonment

Çatalhöyük thrived for centuries but was eventually abandoned around 5700 BC. Scholars debate the reasons behind its decline, with theories ranging from climate change to internal societal shifts.

Today, Çatalhöyük remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering invaluable insights into early human settlements and their way of life. What aspect of Çatalhöyük intrigues you the most?