Tiya
Location: Soddo, Ethiopia
Year of Inscription: 1980
Criteria: (iii) bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared; (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates a significant stage in human history.
Overview: Tiya is a prehistoric archaeological site located in the Soddo region of Ethiopia, known for its impressive collection of standing stones or stelae. These stelae are believed to have been erected between the 12th and 14th centuries and have been inscribed with mysterious symbols that have yet to be fully deciphered.
Prominent Features: The Tiya archaeological site features a collection of 36 standing stones or stelae that are believed to have been erected between the 12th and 14th centuries. These stelae range in height from 1 to 5 meters and are decorated with engravings and mysterious symbols. Some of the symbols are thought to represent human figures, swords, and shields, while others are still not fully understood.
History: The Tiya archaeological site is thought to have been used as a burial ground during the 12th to 14th centuries, during which time the stelae were erected. The site is located near the ancient town of Hadiya, which was an important center of trade and commerce during the medieval period.
Family-Friendly Activities: While Tiya may not have many specific activities geared towards families, children and adults alike can enjoy exploring the site and trying to decipher the mysterious symbols on the stelae.
Fun Fact: The Tiya stones are decorated with symbols and motifs that are similar to those found in other ancient cultures around the world, including Egypt and the Mediterranean.
Entry Fees: The entrance fee for the Tiya archaeological site is 50 Ethiopian birr (approximately 1.50 USD) per person.
How to Reach It: The Tiya archaeological site is located approximately 80 km south of Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia. Visitors can hire a car or take a taxi from Addis Ababa to reach the site, which typically takes around 2 hours.
By Bus: Visitors can take a public bus from Addis Ababa to Butajira town. From Butajira, visitors can take a taxi or a local minibus to reach the site.
It is important to note that the road leading to Tiya is mostly unpaved, and visitors are advised to travel in a four-wheel drive vehicle, especially during the rainy season. Additionally, there are limited transportation options available in the area, so it is recommended to plan ahead and arrange transportation in advance.
Where to Stay: As Tiya is a small village, there are limited accommodation options. However, visitors can find some basic guesthouses and hotels in the nearby towns. Another option is to stay in the capital city of Addis Ababa and take a day trip to Tiya.
Next Stop: Konso Cultural Landscape
Year of Inscription: 1980
Criteria: (iii) bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared; (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates a significant stage in human history.
Overview: Tiya is a prehistoric archaeological site located in the Soddo region of Ethiopia, known for its impressive collection of standing stones or stelae. These stelae are believed to have been erected between the 12th and 14th centuries and have been inscribed with mysterious symbols that have yet to be fully deciphered.
Prominent Features: The Tiya archaeological site features a collection of 36 standing stones or stelae that are believed to have been erected between the 12th and 14th centuries. These stelae range in height from 1 to 5 meters and are decorated with engravings and mysterious symbols. Some of the symbols are thought to represent human figures, swords, and shields, while others are still not fully understood.
History: The Tiya archaeological site is thought to have been used as a burial ground during the 12th to 14th centuries, during which time the stelae were erected. The site is located near the ancient town of Hadiya, which was an important center of trade and commerce during the medieval period.
Family-Friendly Activities: While Tiya may not have many specific activities geared towards families, children and adults alike can enjoy exploring the site and trying to decipher the mysterious symbols on the stelae.
Fun Fact: The Tiya stones are decorated with symbols and motifs that are similar to those found in other ancient cultures around the world, including Egypt and the Mediterranean.
Entry Fees: The entrance fee for the Tiya archaeological site is 50 Ethiopian birr (approximately 1.50 USD) per person.
How to Reach It: The Tiya archaeological site is located approximately 80 km south of Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia. Visitors can hire a car or take a taxi from Addis Ababa to reach the site, which typically takes around 2 hours.
By Bus: Visitors can take a public bus from Addis Ababa to Butajira town. From Butajira, visitors can take a taxi or a local minibus to reach the site.
It is important to note that the road leading to Tiya is mostly unpaved, and visitors are advised to travel in a four-wheel drive vehicle, especially during the rainy season. Additionally, there are limited transportation options available in the area, so it is recommended to plan ahead and arrange transportation in advance.
Where to Stay: As Tiya is a small village, there are limited accommodation options. However, visitors can find some basic guesthouses and hotels in the nearby towns. Another option is to stay in the capital city of Addis Ababa and take a day trip to Tiya.
Next Stop: Konso Cultural Landscape