The Mysterious Steles of Tiya

Tiya is an ancient UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Gurage Zone of Ethiopia. The site is known for its mysterious steles, which are thought to have been erected as grave markers over a period of 300 years between the 12th and 15th centuries. There are a total of 36 steles at the site, each with different symbols and carvings. Some of the symbols are thought to represent swords, animals, and human figures, while others remain a mystery. The site is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills and green valleys, with traditional Gurage villages nearby. I found it intriguing that despite their mysteriousness, the steles have survived to this day, making one think about their cultural, historical and technological significance.