Catalhuyuk
A very large Neolithic and Chalcolithic proto-city in southern Anatolia
Real World Example
Catalhuyuk is significant because it represents one of the earliest examples of a settled farming community, marking a shift from nomadic lifestyles to permanent settlements. This proto-city showcases early human innovation in agriculture, architecture, and social organization, which are foundational elements of modern civilization. The tension between communal living and individual needs highlighted at Catalhuyuk still exists today, as people balance personal space with community life in cities. Concepts developed there, such as shared resources and urban planning, influence how modern cities are designed and how people interact within them. For example, the idea of communal spaces can be seen in today's parks and community centers, where people gather for recreation and socialization.