ISTANBUL, Aug. 19 (Xinhua) -- Gobekli Tepe, one of the world's oldest known temple complex located in Türkiye's southeastern province of Sanliurfa, attracted a record-breaking 326,000 visitors between January and July thanks to an ongoing archaeological project, local authorities reported on Monday.

Governor Hasan Sildak said on social media platform X that the number has surpassed the 290,000 visitors recorded in 2022.

Sanliurfa, known for its rich archaeological heritage and status as an open-air museum, benefits significantly from ongoing excavations and studies through the Stone Hills Project, which plays a crucial role in further enhancing the province's cultural appeal and is expected to draw even more visitors in the near future, he said.

The Stone Hills Project, launched in 2021, focuses on 12 prehistoric sites, including Gobekli Tepe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

By examining the early stages of the Neolithic period and the shift to settled, food-producing village life, the project illuminates crucial developments in human history, according to Istanbul University, which is involved in the research.

Dating back to around 9,600-9,500 B.C., Gobekli Tepe is regarded as the world's oldest known monumental structure and temple complex from the pre-pottery Neolithic period. Often referred to as the "zero point of history," the site features several large circular enclosures with some of the world's earliest megalithic stone pillars.

According to the latest data released by the Culture and Tourism Ministry, Türkiye hosted over 21.6 million foreign visitors during the first six months of this year, marking a 10.33 percent year-on-year increase. Enditem

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