Çatalhöyük: A Journey to the Birthplace of Civilization

Konya is not only rich in cultural heritage but also home to one of the oldest known settlements in human history. Located southeast of the city, Çatalhöyük offers a rare opportunity to step back nearly 9,000 years and witness the dawn of settled life.
This extraordinary site opens a window into the roots of human society, agriculture and community living.

Traces of History Reaching Back to 7000 BC

Çatalhöyük is a Neolithic settlement dating back to around 7000–6000 BC.
The closely packed houses, built without streets and connected side by side, provide invaluable insights into early human life.
Archaeological findings reveal information about the transition to settled living, the beginnings of agriculture, domestication of animals, early art and symbolic rituals.

A Unique Architectural and Social Structure

One of the most distinctive features of Çatalhöyük is that the houses were entered through the roof.
Since there were no streets, daily life unfolded on the rooftops, where people moved between their interconnected homes.
Inside the houses, wall paintings, decorative motifs, clay figurines and ritual traces shed light on the artistic and symbolic world of Neolithic communities.

One of Archaeology’s Most Important Discoveries

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Çatalhöyük is one of the most extensively researched archaeological areas in the world.
Long-term excavations continue with a multidisciplinary scientific approach, helping experts understand the evolution of early human societies.
Visitors can walk along elevated wooden paths, observe excavation zones and explore detailed information panels that bring the ancient settlement to life.

Helpful Tips for Visitors

Çatalhöyük is located about 45 minutes from Konya city center and is easily accessible by car.
Designated walking platforms allow visitors to tour the excavation areas safely and comfortably.
During summer months, the site can be quite warm, so bringing water, sunscreen and a hat is recommended.
Entry is free, and guided tours or the visitor center can make the experience even more enriching.

A Historical Step That Completes the Konya Journey

Çatalhöyük is more than an archaeological site—it is a milestone in the story of humanity.
Every step taken here connects visitors with the lives, beliefs and daily practices of communities that lived thousands of years ago.
For anyone exploring Konya, this remarkable site is a must-see, offering a perspective on where human civilization truly began.