Day Trip to Gobeklitepe – Explore the Zero Point of Humanity
Join a family-friendly journey from Istanbul to Göbeklitepe! Discover ancient wonders, mystical carvings, Harran’s beehive houses, and the sacred Balıklıgöl on this exciting day trip. Book now!
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Day Trip to Gobeklitepe – Explore the Zero Point of Humanity
Pickup included
What's included in Day Trip to Gobeklitepe – Explore the Zero Point of Humanity
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Gobeklitepe
Located near Şanlıurfa, Turkey, Göbeklitepe dates back 12,000 years (9600 BCE), making it the oldest known temple—older than Stonehenge and the pyramids. Discovered in 1994 by archaeologist Klaus Schmidt, the site consists of massive T-shaped limestone pillars, some 6 meters high and weighing 20 tons. These pillars are carved with animal figures, revealing early religious beliefs. Göbeklitepe challenges history, suggesting rituals led to settlements, not agriculture. It is believed to be the first pilgrimage center, marking the origins of organized religion. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018, it is called the "zero point of history." The site is 15 km from Şanlıurfa and features a museum and visitor center. Göbeklitepe remains a groundbreaking discovery, reshaping our understanding of ancient civilizations.
Ayn Zeliha Golu
Ayn Zeliha Lake is a historic site in Şanlıurfa, Turkey, located near Balıklıgöl (Pool of Sacred Fish). According to legend, Zeliha, the foster daughter of King Nimrod, jumped into the flames in sorrow after her father ordered Prophet Abraham to be burned. Miraculously, the fire turned into water, forming Ayn Zeliha Lake. Today, it is a peaceful spot surrounded by gardens and tea houses, attracting visitors who admire its sacred fish, which must not be caught or eaten. The lake remains an important cultural and religious landmark in Şanlıurfa.
BalIklIgol
Balıklıgöl, or the Pool of Sacred Fish, is a historic and religious site in Şanlıurfa, Turkey. According to legend, King Nimrod ordered Prophet Abraham to be burned, but the fire miraculously turned into water, and the burning logs became sacred carp fish. Today, Balıklıgöl is a popular pilgrimage site. The fish are considered holy and must not be caught or eaten. Surrounded by mosques, gardens, and historical sites, it is a peaceful and spiritual place for visitors.
Inclusions
- Flight tickets (Istanbul - Şanlıurfa - Istanbul)
- Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
- English-speaking guide services
- Entrance Fees (Göbeklitepe: $25 USD pp, Şanlıurfa Archaeology and Mosaic Museum 10 USD pp))
- All transfers mentioned in the itinerary
- Drinks
- Personal expenses
- Lunch
- Tips to guide and driver
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 180 minutes before departure time.
Additional Information
The driver or representative will be waiting in the hotel lobby in Istanbul approximately 3 hours before the flight time.
