Aşıklı Höyük

Aşıklı Höyük (Aksaray)

The Aceramic Neolithic settlement at Aşıklı Höyük is located on the banks of the Melendiz River, in the village of Kızılkaya, 25 km southeast of Aksaray. The mound is 230 x 200 m in size and about 15 m high. Three main phases, dating from the 9th/8th millennia BC, have been identified. The rectangular buildings are closely packed and appear to have been entered from the roof. Tools were primarily of obsidian, bone and antler. Agriculture (wheat and barley) was practised by Level 2 but all faunal remains are from wild animals. Salvage excavations were begun at the site in 1989 by Ufuk Esin of Istanbul University. The project is now directed by Mihriban Özbaşaran.

In 2008 only analytical work was undertaken, with micromorphological studies and conservation work. A project is under way to construct model houses at the entrance to the site. There is also a photo exhibit and outreach programs to local schools and villages.

After a number of years when work concentrated on publication of the results of the excavations, it is proposed to reopen excavations in 2010.

Website

The excavation website is at
http://www.asiklihoyuk.org/