Local Cult Activity Linked to Göbekli Tepe Excavation

Feb 8, 2025
By Ayla Demir, Special Correspondent

ÖRENCİK, TURKEY — A once-quiet village nestled near the ancient archaeological site of Göbekli Tepe is now the focus of growing speculation following reports of unusual cult activity tied to the ongoing excavation. Local villagers have expressed concern about late-night gatherings, strange symbols, and whispered rumors of ancient rites being revived.

Authorities in Şanlıurfa confirmed they are investigating reports of unregistered rituals occurring near the outskirts of Göbekli Tepe, where archaeologists recently uncovered Chamber B—a subterranean room containing enigmatic carvings and a massive sigil believed to date back more than 10,000 years. The discovery has drawn worldwide attention, but it appears it has also drawn something else: followers who claim the site holds supernatural power.

“We have seen people we don’t recognize gathering at night,” said Mehmet Yildiz, a long-time resident of Örencik. “They chant and light fires. Some leave strange offerings at the edge of the village—things like blackened stones, bones, and vials of liquid that no one wants to touch.”

Some locals fear that the activity is tied to the unexplained deaths of two villagers last week. Both victims were found with severe head trauma, and their bodies were discovered near an abandoned farmhouse on the village’s outskirts. While officials have not confirmed a connection, villagers claim that symbols similar to those found in Chamber B were drawn near the crime scene.

“We’ve heard about the carvings in the excavation site,” said Yildiz. “The ones that supposedly say, ‘He sees’ or something like that. The symbols in our village—they look like those carvings. It can’t be a coincidence.”

Dr. Maria Ortega, the lead archaeologist overseeing the Göbekli Tepe excavation, downplayed the link between the site and the rumored cult activity.

“While we’re aware of the reports, our focus remains on the scientific study of the artifacts and symbols within Chamber B,” Dr. Ortega said in a brief statement. “It’s not unusual for sites of historical significance to attract speculative interest, but we urge the public to remain calm and rely on verified information.”

Despite the reassurances, the growing tension within the village is palpable. Many locals have begun locking their doors at night, and the once-busy village square is now eerily quiet after sunset. Some villagers have already packed their belongings and relocated to nearby towns.

Authorities have increased patrols in the area, but for many, the damage has already been done.

“We don’t know what they’re trying to summon,” said Yildiz, clutching a worn prayer bead necklace. “But it feels like something ancient is waking up, and I’m not sticking around to see what it is.”

As the investigation continues, the question remains: Is this just another case of superstition clashing with modern exploration, or is something far older and more dangerous being unearthed at Göbekli Tepe?

For now, only the symbols know the answer.