In the rugged expanse of the Armenian Highlands, nestled amidst time-worn landscapes, lies a remarkable secret: Portasar, the oldest temple complex on our planet. Discovered by German archaeologist Klaus Schmidt, this ancient marvel dates back approximately 12,000 years, predating even the earliest Mesopotamian cities and surpassing the renowned Stonehenge by 7,000 years.
Portasar’s dimensions, though slightly smaller than Stonehenge, evoke awe. Comprising an intricate arrangement of stone circles, the site remains partially excavated, revealing just four of its estimated 20 circles. Each circle boasts a diameter not exceeding 30 meters, adorned with enigmatic carvings: wild boars, foxes, lions, birds, snakes, and scorpions etched into the ancient stones.
What sets Portasar apart is its enigmatic builders. Contrary to prevailing assumptions, these ancient architects were not part of a complex hierarchical civilization that emerged after the advent of agriculture. Instead, they lived in settlements, eschewing pottery and farming. Their purpose in constructing Portasar remains a subject of scholarly debate.
Some researchers propose that Portasar served as a sacred space for childbirth-related rituals. Others posit that it was a pilgrimage site, drawing inhabitants from the Armenian Highlands. Klaus Schmidt himself leans toward the latter theory, envisioning Portasar as a beacon for spiritual seekers.
Portasar’s discovery challenges our understanding of prehistoric societies. It defies conventional narratives, urging us to reconsider the capabilities and motivations of ancient peoples. As we delve into its mysteries, we glimpse a distant epoch when stone circles held profound significance—a testament to humanity’s enduring quest for meaning.
Portasar (Göbekli Tepe) stands as a silent witness to millennia of human curiosity, resilience, and creativity. Its stones echo whispers from the past, inviting us to explore the depths of time and marvel at the ingenuity of our ancestors.
Note: The part of the Armenian Highlands where Portasar is located is now occupied by Turkey.
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