Odola Gelma
Located in Wechema Kebele, Dilla Zuria Woreda—31 km from Dilla town—Odola Gelma is a dual-value heritage site featuring prehistoric rock carvings alongside active cultural assembly grounds.
Unique Features
- Prehistoric Rock Engravings: Large rocks feature engravings depicting humped cattle (humped sanga).
- Historical Age: Because these humped cattle are depicted from an era before hornless cattle arrived in East Africa, the carvings are estimated to be thousands of years old. This suggests the ancient inhabitants of the area were pastoralists before adopting farming.
- Living Heritage: The rock carvings are located on the sacred grounds of the Odayaa Songo—the traditional administrative council of the Abba Gada. Visitors can experience both ancient archaeology and active, living indigenous governance in one place.
3-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Travel from Addis Ababa to Dilla. Secure a specialized heritage guide from the local office.
- Day 2 (Rock Art & Council): Head to Odola Gelma at 8:30 AM. Tip: Midday sun washes out the details of the rock carvings; viewing is best in the morning or late afternoon light. Explore the engravings and visit the traditional Odayaa Songo meeting site. Overnight in Dilla.
- Day 3: Return to Addis Ababa.
Conservation & Respect
- Do Not Damage: Applying water, oil, chalk, or any other substance to make the carvings clearer is strictly forbidden, as it destroys the ancient rock patina.
- Sacred Site Rules: Because this is an active traditional worship and administrative site, respect the local elder guidelines closely.