Azwal Point: The Geographical Heart of Tamazgha
Coordinates: 26.55° N, 4.45° E
Location: Central Algeria, northern Sahara
Significance: Geographical center of Tamazgha — the ancestral homeland of the Amazigh (Berber) people.
Introduction
Deep within the sweeping sands of central Algeria lies a point of quiet yet powerful symbolism — the Azwal Point (ⴰⵣⵡⴰⵍ ⵏ ⵜⵎⴰⵣⵖⴰ), located at 26.55° N, 4.45° E. This intersection is not chosen at random but mathematically derived from the geographic midpoints of the Tamazgha region, the cultural and historical homeland of the Amazigh people stretching from Siwa Oasis in Egypt to the Canary Islands, and from the Mediterranean coast to the Sahel.
How the Azwal Point (ⴰⵣⵡⴰⵍ) Was Defined
-East–West Midpoint:
- The Tamazgha region spans from -16.6° W (Canary Islands) to 25.5° E (Siwa Oasis).
- → Midpoint Longitude: 4.45° E
-North–South Midpoint:
- The region stretches from 36.8° N (coastal Mediterranean) to 16.3° N (Sahel edge).
- → Midpoint Latitude: 26.55° N
The intersection of these two axes lands in the heart of the northern Sahara, between Ghardaïa (Taɣerdayt) and Ouargla (Wargrən), a region long associated with Amazigh heritage, particularly the Mozabite and Tuareg tribes.
Cultural and Historical Relevance
Azwal Point lies not only in the geographic center of Tamazgha, but also near the symbolic heart of Amazigh resilience and continuity. The surrounding areas have long hosted autonomous communities, ancient trade routes, and preserved Amazigh language and culture despite centuries of external domination.
The name "Azwal" is drawn from Tamazight languages and can mean "center, core, or axis**" — fitting for a place that embodies the unifying intersection of a diverse and widespread people.
What Can Be Done at Azwal Point?
1. A Monument of Unity
A grand Amazigh Monument of Unity could be built to honor the cultural and geographical center of Tamazgha. Design inspirations could include:
- Stone architecture resembling ancient Berber fortresses (ksour).
- Inscriptions in Tifinagh, the Amazigh script.
- A flame or star symbol at the summit, visible for kilometers.
2. A Crossroads of Cultures Park
An open-air cultural park representing Amazigh tribes and languages from across Tamazgha:
- Pavilions for Rif, Kabyle, Tuareg, Shilha, Mozabite, Zuwara, and Siwi communities.
- Rotating cultural exhibitions, storytelling circles, and music festivals.
3. The Tamazgha Compass
A large ground-level "compass rose" monument showing the directions and distances to key Amazigh landmarks:
- Tizi-Ouzou, Agadir, Timbuktu, Siwa, Canary Islands, and more.
- Laser-etched stone paths leading outward, symbolizing diaspora and unity.
4. Astronomical and Spiritual Significance
Due to the flat terrain and dark skies, Azwal Point could host:
- An Astronomical observatory — linking ancient Amazigh star knowledge with modern astronomy.
- A reflection dome or peace sanctuary, representing reconnection with nature and roots.
Conclusion
The Azwal Point is not just coordinates on a map — it is a symbol of balance, belonging, and being. In a world of shifting borders and identities, anchoring Tamazgha's cultural geography to a central, sacred point is both an act of remembrance and a call for unity.
By investing in this unique geographic and cultural intersection, Tamazgha’s peoples can build a shared future grounded in common origin, identity, and pride.
