Türkiye's Gobeklitepe welcomes 50% more visitors in 2024, reaching 600,000 in 10 months

Turkey

Gobeklitepe is one of Türkiye's most important cultural tourism destinations, says culture and tourism deputy minister.

The famed ancient site of Gobeklitepe in southeastern Türkiye hosted 50% more visitors in the first 10 months of 2024 compared to the same period last year, Turkish Culture and Tourism Deputy Minister Gokhan Yazgi announced Monday.

"Thanks to our promotional strategy, we reached 600,000 visitors at Gobeklitepe during this period," Yazgi told Anadolu during his visit to the city.

He also emphasized that Gobeklitepe in Sanliurfa is one of Türkiye's most important cultural tourism destinations.

Highlighting the growing global interest in the historic site, Yazgi noted that the ministry carries out special promotional activities for Gobeklitepe every year.

"There is currently an incredible fascination with Gobeklitepe worldwide—everyone is curious about it. Esteemed scientists who visit often remark that it is far more impressive in person than in photographs. Many are so captivated by its atmosphere that they are reluctant to leave. These are truly unique emotions.

"With our promotional strategies, we achieved 600,000 visitors in the first 10 months of 2024, which is approximately a 50% increase compared to the same period last year. We expect this number to grow significantly in 2025. The rising interest in Gobeklitepe as a tourism destination is something we will all witness together."

6M visitors expected at Italian exhibition

Yazgi also recalled the opening of the exhibition titled "Gobeklitepe: The Mystery of a Sacred Place" at the Colosseum in Rome, Italy, about a month ago.

Discussing the strong interest in the exhibition, Yazgi said: "Our exhibition will remain open for six months, and we expect around 6 million visitors. The promotion of Gobeklitepe has generated significant global attention.

"We prominently feature Gobeklitepe in our promotional films and television series. By exporting these series worldwide, we have introduced a unique perspective with scenes from Gobeklitepe. Interest in the site has grown remarkably, and we look forward to even brighter days ahead."