We started our day with a trip to Harran, forty five minutes from Sanliurfa and located in an agricultural valley served by the GAP program we learned about yesterday. Raised concrete water canals are constructed to gravity flow water for irrigation. It seems certain that Harran is one of the oldest continually inhabited spots on earth with relics from pagan religions and the oldest mosque, church and Muslim university in Asia Minor. The book of Genesis mentions Harran and how Abraham stayed here for a few years in 1900 BC. We were able to visit their beehive-style mud and straw houses and purchase a few local goods.
Next we were privileged to visit a recent archaeological find in Gobeklitepe that is closed to tourists presently, but sure to be a place the world hears more about. Newly discovered, it is older than any other settlement in the middle east and possibly the world - 11,500 yrs old. What is remarkable about this site, and contrary to former archaeological science, is that the settlement did not center on agriculture, but was founded by hunter-gatherers. Also unusual, the site was entombed purposefully, for reasons yet to be determined. Clearly this preservation has resulted in this ancient site surviving typical damage. It is obvious this region is rich with prehistoric resources, making infrastructure development a challenge. A settlement only 500 years younger is now deep beneath the waters of Attaturk Reservoir.
Upon return to Sanliurfa we had the opportunity to experience the height of noon prayer. The city center is thought to be the birthplace of the prophet Abraham and where he was thrown to the fire and saved by a miracle from God. We climbed to the top of the castle ruins and heard the call to prayer echo from countless mosques in all directions. Men, women and children donned their Sunday best and flooded the markets where we were able to sample delicious street fare and experience the authentic bazaar.
In the afternoon we took the two hour bus drive to the city of Gaziantep and it's technical university. We met with several professors and students from a range of departments. They welcomed us and shared their insights on the higher education system in Turkey as well as thoughts on the current political unrest in the surrounding region. We received a tour of the campus that touched upon fine arts aspects including dance and traditional dress. Having enjoyed dinner at a local favorite, we've confirmed the Turkish belief that Gaziantep has the best kabob and baklava in the country.
- Scott Beylik, Mica Heilmann, Mike Richardson
Ag Leadership Class 40
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