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Ethiopia

Tiya (archaeological site)

Monolithic stelae with engraved symbols

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

About

The Tiya archaeological site in central Ethiopia is renowned for its collection of monolithic stelae. These impressive stone pillars, many bearing intricate symbols such as swords and human figures, are believed to mark a significant prehistoric burial complex. Dating back to between the 10th and 15th centuries CE, the stelae are part of a broader Ethiopian tradition of constructing megaliths. The site comprises 46 stelae, making it one of the largest collections in the region. The artistic carvings on these stelae exhibit a blend of local cultural elements, such as the Oromo sword design. Designated a World Heritage Site in 1980, Tiya is a crucial link in understanding the funerary practices and megalithic traditions of the region.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Tiya (archaeological site)

File20-022_20_-_Tiya_Stele_Field.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Burial and Funerary Structures

GravesTombs

Religious and Ritual Structures

StelaeMenhirs

Artistic and Decorative Features

Inscriptions

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Ethiopia
Source
Wikipedia