Group of Ethiopian Scientists Discover Ancient Antiquities Published 11/30/2007 - 12:35 p.m. EST
A group of Ethiopian scientists discovered a number of ancient antiquities, dating back to pre-Ethiopian Axumite kingdom civilization era.
“In 20 days of our first archeological excavation, our group of scientists and geologists have uncovered a number of different ancient antiquities” Gezaei Haile, a scientist and geology instructor at Mekelle University told Jimma Times.
The ancient antiquities discovered in Tigray region’s Wukro town, rich in rock hewn church of specific name, Aynalem village is believed to be property of the pre-Axumaite era, before the birth of Christianity in Ethiopia. “We have not yet found out the exact age of our antiquities but our assumption is that they belong to a time of 200 years before birth of Christ, as none of the antiquities have sign of cross on them” Gezaei added.
The geological survey is aimed at uncovering the grave of Queen Yodit Gudit, believed to be buried there and whom history blames her of burning down Christian churches around Tigray region during the 10th century. “The antiquities will be sent to Vienna University for further study” said Gezaei.
The Ancient Antiquities include Sabian inscriptions; one stone carved obelisk, women faced Goth, Egyptian pyramid shaped rocks, Ancient metal utensils, Animal fossils and one meter depth house foundation. No one around the area has dared to come closer or try to use the area to plough for Agricultural purpose for certain fear of religious belief.
“There has been a belief coming from generation to generation that, if people try to dig the place believed to be Queen Gudit’s grave then, Drought, famine and disease will break out afterwards” says Gezai, adding “that’s why the antiquities were physically and easily found undisrupted and on their original structure.”
This is one of the previously rare cases when Ethiopians run an archeological study on their own. "Second phase of the study will resume soon after the deep study of the first finding is under gone." said Fitsum Asmerom, public and international relations of the group.
Tesfa-Alem Tekle
JT Northern Ethiopia Correspondent
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