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Ancient City Skeletons Reveal the Hidden Historical Secrets of East Africa

Archaeologists from the University of Exeter and the Ethiopian Authority for Research and Conservation of the Cultural Heritage have uncovered a long-forgotten metropolis in the Harlaa area of eastern Ethiopia, known as the ancient ‘City of Giants’ established in the 10th century BC.

Folklore and legends have been repeated throughout the history of mankind, depicting vast cities built and inhabited by giants. A large number of megalithic constructions from various periods of history, as well as the traditions of many communities separated by seas, strongly support their presence.

Well, that truly happened in this Ethiopian region. Contemporary residents tell of gigantic constructions built of massive blocks that encircle the Harlaa site, leading to widespread speculation that it was formerly home to a famous City of Giants.

Harlaa’s fabled lost city.



Antiquities discovered in far-flung locations such as Egypt, India, and China have astounded researchers, demonstrating the region’s trade capabilities. Experts also uncovered a mosque from the 12th century that is identical to those in Tanzania, as well as in the autonomous Somaliland area, which is a de facto sovereign state not recognized by the UN. These findings illustrate a probable link between various Islamic groups in Africa during that time period.

In terms of archaeology, a professor from the University of Exeter admits that the findings have had a significant impact on the popular understanding of economic operations in Ethiopia’s long-abandoned areas. The fact that it was a well-known commercial center for the region further adds to its significance.

Is this a city of giants?

The Harlaa people were convinced that the colossi could only move the stone blocks needed to create their region’s structures. However, after examining over 300 skeletal remains in nearby cemeteries, including young adults and teens, experts concluded that these individuals were not giants at all, according to their average stature and height.



Locals, on the other hand, refuse to accept the archaeologists’ argument, claiming that they are not convinced. To be honest, this isn’t the first time contemporary science has dismissed centuries-old traditions as nothing more than folklore. We don’t know how the indigenous people are so convinced about the hypothesis of giants because they don’t seem to be interested in fabricating such stories.

Even while there is no proof of giants in the tombs, this does not rule out the idea that giants were involved in the construction of the site. Many people think that these creatures were not buried together since they are thought to be enormous and strong entities. Others, on the other hand, disagree.

In Mesoamerican mythology, the Quinametzin were a type of colossus associated with the mythical metropolis of Teotihuacan, believed to be erected by the gods of the sun. Large cities, monuments, and gigantic structures—variations on this theme—can be found in every corner of the globe, perplexing scientists who are trying to figure out how ordinary people built them in the distant past, even with the assistance of current science.