Arrival in the City of Prophets

As I stepped off the plane at GAP Şanlıurfa Airport, I was immediately enveloped by the rich tapestry of history that this city, often referred to as “The City of Prophets,” offers. The air was thick with stories of ancient times, and I felt a deep connection to the land that has been a cradle of civilization for millennia. Our guide welcomed us warmly, setting the tone for a day that promised to be both enlightening and spiritually enriching.

The journey to Göbekli Tepe began with a brief presentation about Şanlıurfa, a city that has witnessed the rise and fall of empires and the birth of modern Turkey under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. As we drove through the city, I couldn’t help but reflect on the layers of history that have shaped this region, from the heroism of its people to the cultural and political reforms that have transformed it into a modern nation-state.

The Mysteries of Göbekli Tepe

Arriving at Göbekli Tepe, I was struck by the sheer magnitude of the site. This ancient complex, dating back to the Neolithic era, challenges everything we know about human history. The T-shaped obelisks, adorned with intricate carvings of animals and abstract symbols, stood as silent sentinels of a bygone era. As I walked among these megalithic structures, I felt a profound sense of awe and wonder.

The site is believed to have been a place of pilgrimage, where rituals and possibly sacrifices were performed. The absence of domestic animals and plants in the early stages of its construction suggests that it was initially built by hunter-gatherers. Yet, as the complex evolved, it became a center for early agricultural practices, with domesticated wheat from the nearby Karachadag mountain playing a crucial role.

Theories abound about the purpose of Göbekli Tepe. Some suggest it was a place of healing, while others believe it served as an observatory for stargazing. As I stood there, contemplating the mysteries of this ancient site, I couldn’t help but feel a deep spiritual connection to the people who once gathered here, seeking answers to the great questions of life and death.

A Journey Through Time

After exploring Göbekli Tepe, we returned to Şanlıurfa to visit the Prophet Abraham’s Cave and the holy fishpond at Balikligol. According to legend, this was the site of a miraculous event where a great fire was transformed into a pond, and the wood into fish, saving the Prophet Abraham from certain death. The serene beauty of the pond, with its sacred fish swimming gracefully, offered a moment of reflection and peace.

Our journey continued to Harran, a place steeped in history and religious significance. Walking among the ruins of the world’s first university and the ancient beehive houses, I was reminded of the enduring legacy of knowledge and faith that has been passed down through generations. The Grand Mosque, with its impressive square tower, stood as a testament to the architectural and cultural achievements of the past.

As the day drew to a close, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of prophets and scholars, to witness the wonders of ancient civilizations, and to connect with the spiritual heritage of this remarkable region. The Gobeklitepe Tour was not just a journey through time, but a pilgrimage that enriched my soul and deepened my understanding of the human quest for meaning and transcendence.