Mysterious Megalithic Sites in Europe: Barnenez, Gbekli Tepe, Malta and Jericho

European soil holds secrets from ancient times, hidden in the form of megalithic structures built by our Neolithic ancestors thousands of years ago. Among these mysterious monuments, there are several lesser-known sites that captivate archaeologists and historians alike. In this article, we will explore three notable examples: the Cairn of Barnenez in France, G?bekli Tepe in Turkey, and the Megalithic temples of Malta, along with the ancient city of Jericho in the Middle East. Each of these sites carries its own enigma regarding their original purpose, shedding light on the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of ancient civilizations.

The Cairn of Barnenez

Located in Brittany, France, the Cairn of Barnenez stands as one of the oldest known megalithic monuments, dating back to approximately 4800 BCE, predating Stonehenge by more than 2,000 years. This massive tomb complex or potential condominium is a testament to the advanced construction techniques of our ancestors. Archaeologists believe that the multiple chambers within the Cairn of Barnenez may have served as tombs for high-ranking individuals or as religious sanctuaries.

G?bekli Tepe: The First Large Religious Structure

Deep in the heart of Anatolia, G?bekli Tepe offers a glimpse into the origins of temple architecture, dating back to around 9500 BCE. This site is considered the first large-scale religious structure, preceding Stonehenge by more than 7,000 years. The structures are remarkable for their T-shaped pillars adorned with carved animal figures, suggesting that the site served as a place of worship or a meeting ground for early communities.

The discovery of Decapitated man on lower right, Jericho wall and tower, Plastered skull from Jericho, and Stone mask from Jericho has provided valuable insights into the lives and spiritual practices of Neolithic societies. The human skull found in Jericho, decorated and placed in a revered location, indicates the importance of ancestor veneration and the interwoven relationship between the living and the deceased.

Megalithic Temples of Malta

Over two thousand years after the construction of G?bekli Tepe, the Maltese islands witnessed the rise of another remarkable collection of megalithic structures. The Temples of Malta date back to around 3600 BCE, believed to have been built by Neolithic Anatolian farmers. These temples, with their intricate construction and symbolic design, suggest that the inhabitants engaged in complex religious and architectural practices. Some hypotheses propose that these temples were dedicated to ancestor veneration, reflecting the significance of lineage and heritage in Neolithic societies.

The Iceman and the Continuity of Ancestry

The discovery of Tzi the Iceman, found in the ?tztal Alps, has provided further evidence of the ancestral ties between different regions of Europe. Tzi, who lived around 3300 BCE, is believed to be a descendant of the Neolithic Anatolians. His demise and the subsequent DNA analysis offer a glimpse into the genetic links between ancient populations, reinforcing the theory that the builders of G?bekli Tepe and the Cairn of Barnenez may have been part of a larger Anatolian cultural network.

While the megalithic structures of Maltese temperate islands represent a significant architectural achievement, the complex interplay of human skulls, such as those found in Jericho and ?atalh?yük, highlights the profound respect and reverence for the dead in Neolithic cultures. These sites provide clues about the spiritual and burial practices of ancient peoples, contributing to our understanding of early human history.

The enigmatic origins and purposes of these megalithic sites continue to intrigue scholars, inspiring ongoing excavation and research. As we delve deeper into the past, these ancient monuments reveal the rich tapestry of human culture and belief systems that shaped our ancestors' lives, offering valuable lessons for the present and future.

Key Takeaways:

The Cairn of Barnenez in Brittany, France, is one of the oldest megalithic monuments, predating Stonehenge by over 2,000 years. G?bekli Tepe in Turkey is considered the first large-scale religious structure, dating back to 9500 BCE. The Megalithic temples of Malta, built around 3600 BCE, showcase sophisticated architectural techniques and suggest possible links to ancestor veneration. Tzi the Iceman (3300 BCE) substantiates the heritage connections between Neolithic Anatolians and other European populations.

Keywords: Barnenez, Gbekli Tepe, Malta Stones