New Neolithic finds from the highlands between Central Anatolia and Cilicia

Abstract

During archaeological survey carried out in 2017–2021 in the highlands of the northern Central Taurus, a new permanent settlement (Hacıbekirli-Karayer) and a number of seasonal sites dated to the Neolithic Period were discovered. This area is characterized by important geological and geographical features, fertile pastures, polymetallic ores and natural passages connecting Central Anatolia and Cilicia (and also the Levant) that may have affected prehistoric cultural development. Particularly in the context of the circulation of obsidian into Southwest Asia during the Epipaleolithic and Neolithic periods and its effects on the Neolithization of Central Anatolia, several questions have been raised for the region. The permanent Neolithic site of Hacıbekirli-Karayer, located in one of the primary natural passes connecting Central Anatolia and Cilicia, and other sites in the highlands may provide information about these questions.