Long before there were even any cities, any farming, or any pottery, people gathered on a hill in what is now southern Turkey and created something incredible. Huge stone pillars, decorated with animals and symbols, were arranged in massive circular formations. This is believed to be the oldest temple the world has ever known. Dating back to nearly 12,000 years ago, it has caused archaeologists to rethink the very beginnings of civilisation. Just as quickly as it had arrived, it had been deliberately buried, and the people who had built it had seemingly vanished. However, new discoveries are continually uncovering new aspects of the mystery. Each new layer unearthed only deepens the enigma, suggesting that the story of early human belief and society is far more complex than we ever imagined.
