Tutu Fela

About Tutu Fela Stele Site

Tuto Fela Stele Site is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in southern Ethiopia, in the Gedeo Zone, and is known for its unique shape.

  1. Detailed Description of Tuto Fela
  • Location: Gedeo Zone, Southern Ethiopia, not far from Dilla town.
  • World Heritage: Tuto Fela Stele Site is part of the larger “Gedeo Cultural Landscape” that will be inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023.
  • Unique Appearance (Facial Shape): What makes Tuto Fela unique is the presence of anthropomorphic carvings on the statues. While most Gedeo statues have no shape at all, the statues here have shapes that resemble eyes, noses, and mouths.
  • Purpose: These headstones are ancient burial sites, and the statues represent the dignity and social status of the deceased or the tribe. It is believed that the Tuti Fala unique shaped statues were made for selected heroes or leaders of the time.
  • Archaeology: The site plays a key role in understanding the beliefs, artistic skills and social organization of the ancient Gedeo communities.
  1. Tuti Fala Headstone Tour Plan (2 Days)

Day 1

  • Arrive and drive from Addis Ababa to Dilla city. Hire a guide to visit Tuti Fala Headstones and visit the unique face-shaped statues up close and get a detailed explanation from the guide.

Day 2

  • The Great Collection and Culture:- Morning: Travel to the largest collection of headstones in Africa, the Chelba Tutiti Headstones, and view thousands of statues.
  • Afternoon: Visit Yirgachefe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and participate in a traditional coffee agroforestry system and coffee roasting ceremony. Return to the city of origin.

III. Important Tips for Visiting

  • Guide Required: The Tuti Fela Tkel Stones are unique in their historical significance. It is mandatory to hire a local expert guide to truly understand their meaning and hear the history surrounding the site.
  • Conservation: The Tkel Stones are a heritage site. It is strictly forbidden to lean on, write on, or deface the stones. It is important to visit with respect.
  • Transportation: Since the stones are located in a rural area, it is recommended to use a 4×4 vehicle for ease of transportation.
  • Respect: These sites are sacred to the Gedeo people. Visiting in a manner that respects the local culture.