Ancient Caves Discovered in Ethiopia

Nine ancient caves discovered in Keffa zone

February 21, 2008


Nine ancient caves were discovered recently in Telo Woreda, Keffa Zone of the South Ethiopia Peoples’ State, the woreda information office said.

Professionals of the office uncovered the ancient caves in the area locally called ‘Shimari’ while trying to register relics that exist in the woreda, an information expert with the office, Melese Woldie told ENA on Wednesday.

Five of the newly discovered caves, which are located in dense forest, have 40-m length, 25-m width, and 3-m height and can hold up to 600 persons at a time, the expert said. Ancient tools made of stone and ashes were also discovered inside the caves indicating human habitation.

The woreda has already registered 37 ancient caves, he said, especially one of the ancient caves in the woreda has 44-m length, 40-m width, and 5-m height.
A cornerstone was laid in the woreda for the construction a museum around the cemetery of 13 prominent personalities of the Keffa dynasty. (ENA)