Recent research suggests that Çatalhöyük, an ancient city in Turkey, was likely governed by a matriarchal society over 9,000 years ago. This groundbreaking study, published on June 29, 2025, reveals insights into the social structure of one of the most well-preserved Neolithic settlements.
- Çatalhöyük likely had a matriarchal society.
- Researchers analyzed over 130 ancient genomes.
- Female lineage connected household members significantly.
- Grave goods favored females over males.
- Maternal ancestry shaped group identities.
- Similar findings in Celtic society studies.
Researchers analyzed the genomes of over 130 skeletons from Çatalhöyük, where evidence indicates that maternal lineage played a crucial role in family connections. The findings show that women were often buried with more grave goods than men, suggesting a significant social status. This challenges the assumption that all ancient societies were patrilineal.
This discovery raises important questions about gender dynamics in ancient societies. How did these matriarchal structures influence social organization? The findings also resonate with recent research in Celtic society, indicating a broader historical pattern.
- Maternal lineage connected household members.
- Women received preferential treatment in burial practices.
- Husbands often relocated to their wives’ households.
- Similar Trends observed in ancient Celtic societies.
As we uncover more about our past, it’s essential to question long-held assumptions and explore how these ancient structures can inform our understanding of gender dynamics today.