Çatalhöyük Neolithic City
Travel Point Overview
Located in Çumra district of Konya, Çatalhöyük Neolithic City is an archaeological heritage site that witnessed one of the most significant phases in human history: the transition to settled life, the beginning of agriculture, and the development of hunti
Çatalhöyük Neolithic City: One of Humanity’s First Settlements
Located in Çumra district of Konya, Çatalhöyük Neolithic City is an archaeological heritage site that witnessed one of the most significant phases in human history: the transition to settled life, the beginning of agriculture, and the development of hunting. Covering an area of 14 hectares, this ancient city was continuously inhabited between 7400 - 5200 BCE, serving as one of the most crucial pieces of evidence showing how early village life evolved into urbanization.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012, Çatalhöyük is considered one of the world's oldest settlements, renowned for its strong artistic and cultural traditions, dense population, and unique architecture.
The Historical and Archaeological Significance of Çatalhöyük
Çatalhöyük consists of two mounds: the Eastern Mound and the Western Mound, both holding significant archaeological value as they preserve evidence of different historical periods.
🏺 Eastern Mound (7400 - 6200 BCE)
🔸 Belongs to the Neolithic Period and contains 18 different settlement layers.
🔸 The wall paintings, reliefs, sculptures, and artistic works found here provide critical insights into the cultural structure of early societies.
🔸 Reveals how early agricultural communities lived and organized their societies.
🏺 Western Mound (6200 - 5200 BCE)
🔸 Dates back to the Chalcolithic Period, showcasing more advanced agricultural and trade systems.
🔸 The settlement layout and daily life artifacts provide key evidence of how village life gradually transitioned into urbanization.
One of Çatalhöyük’s most striking features is its unique housing architecture. Homes were built adjacent to one another, with entryways through the roofs instead of doors, and there were no conventional streets. This architectural style is a significant example of how early humans structured their societies and ensured security.
Art and Cultural Artifacts Discovered in Çatalhöyük
🔹 Wall Paintings and Reliefs – Some of the earliest known artistic depictions of daily life, religious beliefs, and hunting scenes are found on Çatalhöyük’s walls.
🔹 Sculptures and Figurines – The Mother Goddess figurines, animal reliefs, and totemic carvings reflect the spiritual beliefs and artistic expressions of the people who lived here.
🔹 Burial Traditions – The people of Çatalhöyük buried their deceased under the floors of their homes, a practice that demonstrates strong family bonds and spiritual beliefs.
🔹 Agriculture and Animal Domestication – Evidence suggests that wheat, barley, and legumes were cultivated, while sheep and goats were domesticated, marking a crucial step in human history.
What Makes Çatalhöyük Unique?
🏛 One of the First Urban Plans – A settlement layout with no streets and homes built closely together, creating an interconnected living space.
🎨 Early Examples of Art and Religious Symbolism – Buildings adorned with ritualistic art and symbolic decorations.
🌱 The Dawn of Agriculture and Settled Life – One of the best examples of how hunter-gatherer societies transitioned into farming communities.
🏺 Over 2,000 Years of Continuous Settlement – A site that remained inhabited throughout the Neolithic and Chalcolithic periods.
With these remarkable features, Çatalhöyük is recognized as one of the most significant archaeological sites not only in Anatolia but across the world.
Visiting Çatalhöyük: Practical Information and Travel Tips
📍 Location: Çatalhöyük is 10 km from the Çumra district of Konya.
🚗 Getting There: It takes approximately 50 minutes by car from Konya city center.
🎟 Entrance Fee: The site accepts the Museum Pass, and on select days, free entry is available.
🕰 Opening Hours: Visiting hours vary by season. You can check the latest schedule via the Advisormapp app.
🔹 Tips for Your Visit
✅ Join a guided tour to fully appreciate the site’s historical significance.
✅ Take your time to observe the wall paintings and artifacts up close.
✅ Don’t leave Konya without exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
✅ Use the Advisormapp app to plan your route and discover other nearby historical sites.
Conclusion: Are You Ready to Explore Çatalhöyük?
As one of the world’s earliest settlements, Çatalhöyük provides invaluable insights into humanity’s transition to settled life. For those eager to explore history, art, and cultural heritage in one place, this ancient city offers a truly unique experience.
🗺 Plan your trip and explore Çatalhöyük along with other historical sites in Konya using Advisormapp! 🚀✨
