On a barren hill in eastern Turkey, between the legendary Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, lies one of earths most ancient discoveries. First noted in 1963 but not excavated until 1995, the discovery shocked the world and rewrote history. A series of carefully placed and carved pillars of stone, encircling a central point with carved images of animals and beasts defines the monument Gobekli Tepe, an ancient Neolithic site reminiscent of Stonehenge.

At nearly 12,000 years old, Gobekli Tepe more than doubles the age of Stonehenge. In this period of history, man was thought to be only hunters and gatherers, but as evidenced in this ancient temple, man was able to work together to transport giant stones and arrange them for a mysterious purpose. It is curious to think how this site, and Eastern Turkey in general, is relatively unknown with the possibility of hiding countless more secrets. A visit to this ancient corner of civilization is a reminder to how little we know.