Gahtielay

Gahtielay

Gahtielay is a small village in Eritrea, in the Horn of Africa. The name Gahtielay is derived from the Saho word "Gahteley", which means " the water is back". The municipality is located in the south-eastern part of the Maekel region and is renowned for its beautiful landscapes and traditional way of life. The village is surrounded by mountains and lies at an altitude of over 2000 meters. It has a cool and dry climate, with many natural springs and rivers in the surrounding area. Agriculture and livestock farming are the main economic activities of the village. Maize, sorghum, walnuts, oranges and watermelons are grown in this area. Due to the six hot months, shepherds often migrate to the cold areas during the hot and dry season and return to their villages when it is convenient for them. The inhabitants of Gahtelay speak mainly Tigrinya and have a wealth of culture and traditions. The village is also host to a number of historical and cultural sites, including ancient rock-hewn temples, old forts and traditional houses. According to the town's older residents, around 1968 Gahtielay was a busy commercial center, and a few skilled farmers from all over Eritrea, especially from Keren, who had access to Gahtielay's rich soil, grew corn, nuts, soybeans and watermelons, and profited greatly from it. Before and in 1968, Gahtielay was covered in thick sedge plants, and the people of the time built their houses from these plants.