The spectacular rock-hewn pillars of Göbekli Tepe in southern Türkiye have baffled archaeologists for decades. Who built this incredible monument over 12,000 years ago, and why? Could the builders have mastered agriculture, and were they the first settled communities of humans in the world? In this episode, experts investigate intriguing new theories, offering clues to unlocking the secrets of this ancient site. Cast List: Dr. Martin Sweatman: University of Edinburgh Dominic Selwood: Historian, barrister, bestselling author, novelist and frequent contributor to national newspapers including The Independent, The Spectator and The Daily Telegraph Dr. Janina Ramirez: Cultural historian, broadcaster and author based at the University of Oxford Hugh Newman: Author & Researcher Tony McMahon: Former BBC news producer, author, print journalist and historian Dr. Karen Bellinger: Anthropologist, archaeologist, and historian Dr. Peggy Brunache: Historian, archaeologist and lecturer at University of Glasgow Dr. Julia Gresky: German Archaeological Institute Professor Necmi Karul: Lead Archaeologist, Karahan Tepe Professor Avi Gopher: Tel Aviv University Gil Haklay: Israel Antiquities Authority Lynn Picknett: Historian and researcher specialising in exposing historical conspiracies. She is also the co-author of several notable works Eric Meyers: Narrator Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.