SANLIURFA—Visitors to Turkey’s ancient Gobeklitepe now have the opportunity to view the Neolithic site from a new vantage point as hot air balloon tours have commenced, providing a unique aerial perspective on what is often referred to as “history’s ground zero.”

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, the balloon tours, which began this past Sunday in southeastern Turkey, take off at sunrise and soar over the UNESCO World Heritage site. Gobeklitepe has captured global attention following discoveries that suggest it might contain the world’s oldest temple, significantly boosting visitor numbers in recent years.

Aydin Aslan, the provincial culture and tourism chief, noted that the hot air balloon initiative is part of an effort to enrich the tourism experience in Sanliurfa. The flights are expected to increase both the number of visitors and the length of their stays, thanks to the captivating views of Gobeklitepe’s intricate stone structures and the expansive Harran Plain.

The launch of the balloon tours was delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent earthquakes in early 2023. However, with regional tourism recovering, officials are optimistic about the new attraction’s potential. Merve Ofluoglu, a local tourism official, expressed enthusiasm for the enhanced experiences the balloon flights offer, especially for tour guides who can now provide richer narratives about the region’s historical and geographical significance.

Bilge Ezel, one of the hot air balloon pilots, highlighted the dedication of his team in overcoming the challenges to make the flights possible. He anticipates a noticeable impact on the tourism dynamics of Sanliurfa, predicting changes in both the duration of tourists’ stays and the demographics of the visitors.

Gobeklitepe, discovered in 1963 by researchers from Istanbul and Chicago universities, has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2018 and continues to be a focal point for archaeological and touristic interest.