Sede Merkato Megalithic Site

A magnificent historical site located in the Gedeo Zone of the Southern Region of Ethiopia. The site is part of the Gedeo Cultural Landscape, which was recently (2023) inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  1. about the Site

Location

  • Location: Gedeo Zone, Southern Ethiopia.
  • ​​Distance: Approximately 20-25 km from the capital, Dilla.
  • Setting: The site is located in a mountainous and lush natural setting.

Historical and Archaeological Interest

Sede Merkato is the site of the largest concentration of megalithic sites in Ethiopia.

  • ​​Quantity: There are over 500 megaliths at the site. Some are standing, while many have fallen over time.
  • Shape: Most of the stones are cylindrical, with some having a phallic shape. This shape is believed to have been considered a symbol of bravery or fertility by the ancient Gedeo culture.
  • Age: Although it is difficult to say exactly how old these stones are, they are estimated to be between 800 and 1000 years old.
  • Art: The unique carvings on the stones reveal the skills of the ancient stonemasons.
  1. Travel Preparation and Tips

Best Time to Go

  • September to May: This is the best time to visit as it is not very rainy and the roads are dry. During the winter (June to August), the roads can be difficult to navigate due to the erosion.

What to bring?

  • Comfortable walking shoes (as the area is mountainous).
  • Light clothing and rain gear (as the weather is variable).
  • Camera (for historical records and photos).
  1. Sample Itinerary

This itinerary is a 3-day itinerary designed for travelers traveling from Addis Ababa.

Day 1: Trip to Dila

  • Morning: Depart Addis Ababa early in the morning and travel to Hawassa. (Addis Ababa -> Zway -› Hawassa).
  • Lunch: Have lunch in Hawassa and relax on the lake shore.
  • Afternoon: Drive from Hawassa to Dila (approximately 90 km). Dila is the capital of Gedeo Zone.
  • Accommodation: Overnight at a hotel in Dila.

Day 2: Visit Sede Merkato and other places

  • Morning: Depart Dila and drive to Sede Merkato.
    • Get detailed information about the history and location of the stones with the help of a local guide.
    • View and take photos of hundreds of ancient stones.
  • Lunch: Lunch at Yirgachefe or Dilla (or grab a sandwich on the way).
  • Afternoon: If time permits, drive to Tuto Fela. Unlike Sedemerkato, Tuto Fela is home to a large number of anthropomorphic rocks.
  • Coffee: Drink the famous Yirgachefe coffee at a local traditional house.
  • Accommodation: Return to Dilla for the night.

Day 3: Return trip

  • Morning: Visit Dilla Market or coffee processing plants (your choice).
  • Day: Return trip to Addis Ababa.
  1. Special Tips
  2. Transportation: A 4WD is recommended as the road goes through the countryside.
  3. Guide: It is very useful to hire a local guide to better understand the local culture and the meaning of the rocks. You can find a legal guide by visiting the Zone Culture and Tourism Office.
  4. Local People: The people of Gedeo are hospitable and peaceful. Interacting with the locals and learning about their culture will add value to your trip.

Since the Gedeo Zone is especially known for being one of the best coffee regions in the world, don’t forget to include a coffee tourism experience alongside your historical tour.

Can I provide more information about hotels in Dilla City or other Gedeo tourist attractions to help you with your trip?