Built on Rock – Towards a Reconstruction of the ›Neolithic‹ Topography of Göbekli Tepe

Abstract

Göbekli Tepe has always been described as an anthropogenic mound comprised of archaeological deposits that had accumulated upon a flat limestone plateau. In light of recent studies, however, we are forced to reconsider this interpretation. It is now apparent that the present relief of Göbekli Tepe is dictated by, and therefore intrinsically related to, the underlying rock-scape. This rock relief was a decisive criterion in the  choice of this particular location for the construction of the monumental buildings and a determining factor for later site formation processes. In this contribution, we will discuss possible scenarios for the reconstruction of the palaeo-relief at Göbekli Tepe.