Garowe, the vibrant capital of Puntland, is a city steeped in history, resilience, and cultural pride. Often called "Amni badan" (Somali for "safe haven"), this administrative hub has evolved from a small settlement into a symbol of freedom and growth. Let’s journey through its past and discover how Garowe became the heart of Puntland.
Long before it was a modern city, Garowe was part of the influential Majeerteen Sultanate, a powerful kingdom that dominated Puntland in the 19th century. Ruled by Boqor Osman Mahamud, the sultanate thrived on trade, livestock, and strategic alliances. Garowe’s location in the semi-arid Nugaal Valley...
Throughout their long history, the ancient Egyptians frequently mentioned a distant land called Punt. This was a place to which expeditions were regularly sent to bring back “creations of the gods”—exotic natural minerals and incense necessary for temple rituals and ceremonies closely tied to the Egyptian cult of the pharaoh.
The land of Punt was extraordinary. The Egyptians often referred to it as “Ta-Netjer,” meaning “Land of the Gods.” Punt was first mentioned in the 26th century BCE during the reign of Pharaoh Khufu of the Fourth Dynasty. However, written records of journeys to this “promised land” date back to...
Once in Russia, a young scientist named Vladimir Golenishchev discovered in the Imperial Hermitage of St. Petersburg a papyrus that contained the story of an Ancient Egyptian voyage to “the King's mines.” The text dates back to the Middle Kingdom period (20th—17th century BC) and is surprisingly well-preserved. Researchers believe that this is the oldest literary work that forms the basis of all adventure and fantasy literature. The language of the tale is very colorful, and in some places, it features rhythmic prose. And so, in this ancient literary text, there is talk of Punt!
The main character recounts how...
