Close Menu
News JournosNews Journos
  • World
  • U.S. News
  • Business
  • Politics
  • Europe News
  • Finance
  • Turkey Reports
  • Money Watch
  • Health
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
Latest Headlines:
  • Nvidia’s Jensen Huang Courts Beijing Amid Renewed Market Access in China
  • Volcanic Eruption in Iceland Forces Evacuation of Tourists from Blue Lagoon as Lava Approaches Grindavik
  • Humanity Faces Significant Losses, Says Spokesperson
  • Gun Seller Backed by Donald Trump Jr. Launches Stock Trading
  • Lightning Strike in New Jersey Leaves 1 Dead, 13 Injured
  • Used EV Batteries Poised to Power AI Growth
  • UK Inflation Data Reveals Key Trends for June
  • Hijacked Small Plane Grounds Flights at Vancouver International Airport
  • Experts Warn of Vulnerabilities in Federal E-Verify System Following Workplace Raids
  • Trial Commences Over Alleged Facebook Privacy Violations Involving CEO and Others
  • Controversy Surrounds Franco-Israeli Singer Amir at Francofolies de Spa Festival
  • Newsom Criticizes Trump’s National Guard Move, Urges Maturity
  • Potential Consequences of Trump’s Dismissal of Fed Chair Powell
  • Prince Harry Honors Diana’s Legacy by Advocating Against Landmines in Angola
  • Tsunami Warning Lowered to Advisory Following 7.2 Magnitude Earthquake near Alaska
  • Goldman Sachs Reports Q2 2025 Earnings Results
  • Rubio Calls Israeli Strike on Damascus a ‘Misunderstanding’ Amid Peace Efforts
  • Complete Skeleton of Medieval Knight Discovered Beneath Former Ice Cream Parlor in Poland
  • James Gunn Discusses “Superman”: Release Date, Character’s Immigrant Story, and Themes of Kindness
  • Assembly Discusses Olive Grove; Tanal’s Brief Action Sparks Varank’s Controversial Remarks
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram
News JournosNews Journos
Subscribe
Saturday, July 19
  • World
  • U.S. News
  • Business
  • Politics
  • Europe News
  • Finance
  • Turkey Reports
  • Money Watch
  • Health
News JournosNews Journos
Ancient City May Have Been Matriarchal Society Over 9,000 Years Ago, Researchers Reveal

Ancient City May Have Been Matriarchal Society Over 9,000 Years Ago, Researchers Reveal

News EditorBy News EditorJune 28, 2025 Top Stories 5 Mins Read

A recent study reveals that the ancient city of Çatalhöyük may have been governed by a female-led society over 9,000 years ago. Researchers who examined the genomes of over 130 skeletons from one of the best-preserved Neolithic settlements in southern Anatolia, Turkey, suggest a matriarchal structure based on burial practices and genetic connections. The findings challenge traditional views on societal lineage, highlighting the importance of maternal ties in ancient communities.

Article Subheadings
1) Çatalhöyük: An Overview of the Ancient City
2) Groundbreaking Research Techniques in Ancient DNA Analysis
3) Maternal Lineage and Burial Practices
4) Implications of a Matriarchal Society
5) Relevance of Findings in Modern Understanding of Mankind

Çatalhöyük: An Overview of the Ancient City

The ancient city of Çatalhöyük is located in southern Anatolia, Turkey, and is one of the most significant archaeological sites from the Neolithic period. This settlement was inhabited for more than a millennium, from around 9000 to 8000 BCE, showcasing a sophisticated way of living characterized by its unique architectural structures. Known for its mudbrick houses and elaborate wall paintings, Çatalhöyük is often cited as one of the earliest urban centers. The city features extraordinary artifacts, including figurines that may represent a “Mother Goddess,” hinting at the potential role of female figures in their society. These aspects have led researchers to speculate about the community’s possible matriarchal structure.

Groundbreaking Research Techniques in Ancient DNA Analysis

The recent study leveraged cutting-edge genetic analysis techniques to investigate the ancient genomes of skeletons recovered from Çatalhöyük. Over a period of 12 years, a multi-disciplinary team including geneticists, archaeologists, and biological anthropologists meticulously probed more than 130 skeletons spanning 35 households within the site. Their analytical methods included advanced DNA sequencing technology, allowing significant insights into familial connections and social structures within the community. Such innovative approaches to ancient DNA are reshaping our understanding of how early human societies functioned, particularly in terms of lineage and social affiliation.

Maternal Lineage and Burial Practices

One of the pivotal findings of the study centered around the burial practices of the residents of Çatalhöyük. Researchers determined that maternal lineage played a crucial role in maintaining connections within familial units, as evidenced by the way individuals were interred. Initially, family members were buried together, but over time, the patterns shifted. Many of the individuals buried in close proximity exhibited no biological relationships, indicating that wives may have fostered a nurturing household that drew in external males. This practice underscores the idea that men likely relocated to their wives’ homes upon marriage, creating a clear emphasis on the matrilineal line rather than the traditional patrilineal descent.

Implications of a Matriarchal Society

The thought-provoking findings open the door to reevaluating historical assumptions about gender roles in ancient societies. As stated by study co-author Dr. Eline Schotsmans from the University of Wollongong, it’s essential to recognize that not all societies operated under a patrilineal framework. Many cultures, including some Indigenous Australian tribes, have matrilineal systems that govern identity, land rights, and social responsibilities through the female line. The evidence from Çatalhöyük reinforces this notion and aligns with other contemporary studies that suggest women had prominent social roles, including land and property ownership. This new perspective on gender roles during the Neolithic era is pivotal for understanding societal structures in a broader anthropological context.

Relevance of Findings in Modern Understanding of Mankind

The revelations from Çatalhöyük are not merely academic; they hold profound implications for modern anthropology and historical comprehension. The examination of maternal ancestry as a primary determinant of group identity challenges existing paradigms about social organization in ancient communities worldwide. The findings resonate with recent studies in diverse geographical regions, such as discoveries in pre-Roman Britain indicating that women held significant roles in their communities. As global discussions about gender equity and the influence of female lineage continue to evolve, insights gained from these archaeological revelations underscore the need to appreciate diverse cultural constructs across time.

No. Key Points
1 Çatalhöyük was likely a matriarchal society over 9,000 years ago.
2 The research involved advanced DNA analysis over a 12-year period.
3 Maternal lineage was crucial for familial connections in burial practices.
4 Findings challenge traditional views of gender roles in ancient societies.
5 The results contribute to ongoing discussions about gender equity in society.

Summary

The groundbreaking research conducted on the skeletal remains from Çatalhöyük provides compelling evidence for the existence of a matriarchal society thousands of years ago. Through advanced DNA analysis, researchers have unearthed significant insights into social structures that were largely influenced by maternal lineage, challenging long-held assumptions about gender roles in ancient environments. This study not only enriches the historical narrative surrounding Çatalhöyük but also invites further exploration into the complexities of early human societies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the significance of the findings at Çatalhöyük?

The findings indicate that Çatalhöyük was likely a matriarchal society, emphasizing the role of maternal lineage in social and familial structures during the Neolithic period.

Question: How did researchers analyze the skeletons from Çatalhöyük?

Researchers utilized advanced DNA sequencing techniques over 12 years to investigate the ancient genomes of more than 130 skeletons from various households.

Question: What does a matriarchal society imply about gender roles?

A matriarchal society implies that women held significant power and control over land, property, and social responsibilities, often shaping family structures and societal norms.

ancient Breaking News City Critical Events Economic Trends Exclusive Reports Global Headlines Hot Topics In-Depth Stories Investigative News Latest Headlines Live Updates Local Highlights Major Announcements Matriarchal National Updates Opinion & Analysis Political Developments researchers Reveal Social Issues Society Special Coverage Top Stories Trending Topics Viral News years
News Editor
  • Website

As the News Editor at News Journos, I am dedicated to curating and delivering the latest and most impactful stories across business, finance, politics, technology, and global affairs. With a commitment to journalistic integrity, we provide breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert insights to keep our readers informed in an ever-changing world. News Journos is your go-to independent news source, ensuring fast, accurate, and reliable reporting on the topics that matter most.

Keep Reading

Top Stories

Lightning Strike in New Jersey Leaves 1 Dead, 13 Injured

5 Mins Read
Top Stories

Newsom Criticizes Trump’s National Guard Move, Urges Maturity

7 Mins Read
Top Stories

Tsunami Warning Lowered to Advisory Following 7.2 Magnitude Earthquake near Alaska

5 Mins Read
Top Stories

DHS Defends Agents Amid Claims of Criminal Case Diversion

5 Mins Read
Top Stories

Potential Impact of Rising Inflation on Credit Card Rates

6 Mins Read
Top Stories

Yemen Intercepts Unprecedented Number of Iranian Arms Destined for Houthis

6 Mins Read
Mr Serdar Avatar

Serdar Imren

News Director

Facebook Twitter Instagram
Facebook X (Twitter) Instagram Pinterest
  • About Us
  • Get In Touch
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • Terms and Conditions
© 2025 The News Journos. Designed by The News Journos.

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.