Karahantepe is considered an archaeologically significant site with substantial importance for tourism. Due to the discovery of numerous Neolithic-era pillars and structures, the site provides extensive insights into prehistoric periods, capturing the attention of both academic circles and the general public. The stones unearthed during archaeological excavations and the figurative depictions on them offer visitors the opportunity to observe cultural and social structures from approximately 11,000 years ago.
Excavations at Karahantepe, where more than 250 T-shaped pillars from the Neolithic period are located, are continuing in 2024. During these excavations, a depiction of a running wild donkey was discovered on one of the stones placed on the ground. Prof. Necmi Karul, the head of the Karahantepe Excavation, stated that excavations are ongoing at 10 different sites, including Karahantepe, as part of the Stone Hills Project. Karul also noted that the structures currently being examined date back approximately 11,000 years, and the presence of many grinding stones within these structures indicates that daily life activities took place there.
