Ona Adi: A Gateway to Ancient Trade and Cultural Exchange"

Nestled in the heart of Eastern Tigray’s Gulomekeda Woreda, Ona Adi is a sprawling ancient town site that holds a key place in the region's rich history. Its strategic position along ancient trade routes made it a vital link between the highland agricultural communities and the lowland pastoralist groups, creating a unique blend of cultures and traditions.

Serving as a hub for trade, Ona Adi was connected to the renowned Red Sea trading centers of Adulis, Hirgego, Kohaito, Massawa, and Matara. This location facilitated continuous cultural and commercial exchanges between Christian highlanders and Muslim Afro-Saho pastoralists. Evidence of this thriving trade is visible in the pottery uncovered at the site, showcasing the dynamic interaction between these diverse communities.

A visit to Ona Adi offers an immersive journey through time, allowing travelers to explore the remains of an ancient town that once stood at the crossroads of significant cultural and commercial pathways. It’s a must-visit for those intrigued by the ancient networks that shaped the Horn of Africa.