Ancient structures which are thought to represent one of the world's earliest human settlements have been uncovered in Turkey.
Archaeologists made the discovery in Mendik Tepe, near to Gobekli Tepe which is a well-known 12,000-year-old site.
This week, researchers have announced the newly uncovered structures are thought to predate Gobekli Tepe, making them 7,000 years older than Stonehenge.
The site is believed to be part of a network of prehistoric settlements and has transformed how archaeologists consider the early human societies in the Fertile Crescent, a region in Western Asia which gave rise to some of the world's earliest civilisations.
The discovery has altered how scientists understand the timeline of organised settlements
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At Mendik Tepe, archaeologists have uncovered upright rectangular stones which represent a distinct architectural and cultural identity when compared to the T-shaped pillars from Gobekli Tepe.
Excavations have been taking place at the site since 2024, and the research team have also discovered a range of oval-shaped structures.
Some of these have elaborate stone walls and decorated stone pieces which indicate a sophisticated society able to create complex construction and show artistic expression.
Project coordinator De Necmi Karul said: "Mendik Tepe is an extremely important site for understanding the first settlers in the region."
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Archaeologists have uncovered upright rectangular stones which represent a distinct architectural and cultural identity
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This is in part because the site plays a critical role in scientists's understanding of how humans adopted agriculture and created settled communities.
Researchers have gained insights into the social organisations of the ancient communities which lived in the region thanks to unearthed structures which vary significantly in size.
It is believed the smaller buildings, which only measure a few feet across, could have served as storage or food preparation rooms, whereas medium-sized structures may have been dwellings.
In comparison, larger buildings, some of which have been found to measure up to 16 feet (4.9 metres), feature incredibly detailed stonework.
Gobekli Tepe is a well-known 12,000-year-old site where T-shaped pillars have been uncovered
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According to Professor Douglas Baird, who is leading the excavations, this suggests ritual or communal significance.
"This year, we will focus on understanding the functional differences between these structures," Professor Baird told Turkish news agency AA.
He added: "Were the smaller ones for storage or food preparation? Were the larger ones residences or ritual spaces? These questions are key to unlocking the site's story.
"The finds suggest Mendik Tepe belongs to the very beginnings of the Neolithic."