Teneghelt ou croix d’Agadez

Terres Touareg

Teneghelt or the Agadez cross: symbol of the Tuaregs of the Sahara

The Teneghelt, or Agadez cross, is undoubtedly the most emblematic piece of jewellery of the Saharan Berbers, particularly made by the Tuareg of the Algerian and Nigerian Sahara.
This ancient piece of jewellery, handed down from generation to generation, is a true Tuareg symbol.

An ancient piece of Tuareg jewellery

Traditionally created by craftsmen in Niger, the Agadez cross has 22 variants, each symbolising a Tuareg town, the most famous of which is Agadez, in northern Niger. Although its history developed mainly in this region, today the manufacture of the Agadez cross is widespread among all the Tuaregs of the Sahara.

The Teneghelt takes its name from the unique manufacturing technique used by Tuareg blacksmiths. They first create a wax shape, which is then melted and poured into a clay mould, using the ‘lost wax’ technique. The term ‘teneghelt’ actually means ‘the action of pouring’, which explains the origin of the name of this Tuareg symbol. Europeans popularised the term ‘Agadez cross’ or ‘southern cross’ to designate this jewel, although this name has no equivalent in the Tuareg language.

The enigma of the origin of the Agadez cross

The meaning of the Agadez cross remains a mystery. Some believe it could be inspired by the ankh, the Egyptian cross of life, while others link it to the Christian cross. For some Tuareg specialists, the four-pointed cross represents the four cardinal points, essential for the nomadic travellers of the Sahara. Another interpretation suggests that the Agadez cross symbolises the ‘+’ sign in tifinagh, the Tuareg alphabet, the sign of the feminine, thus paying homage to women.

Legend also has it that a young nomadic warrior, in love with a princess he could never meet, asked a blacksmith to create a jewel to express his love. The Tamashek word for ‘love’ is ‘tara’, written with the signs ‘+’ and ‘O’. By putting these two shapes together, the beginning of the Agadez cross takes shape. This jewel would then have become a secret message of love from the blacksmith to the young man’s beloved.

The Agadez cross today

Once worn mainly by Tuareg women, the Agadez cross is now appreciated the world over by men and women alike. For the Tuareg people, this jewel remains a strong Tuareg symbol, carrying many beliefs. It is said to have magical powers, including bringing good luck and protecting against the evil eye. A symbol of beauty and gentleness, the Agadez cross continues to play a central role in the culture and traditions of the Tuareg people.

The Teneghelt, or Agadez cross, is much more than just a piece of jewellery for the Tuareg of the Sahara. This Tuareg symbol embodies a long history of mystery and legend, and continues to fascinate with its beauty and profound meaning. Today, the Agadez cross transcends the borders of the desert, while remaining a masterpiece of Tuareg culture and a timeless testimony to Saharan craftsmanship.

Teneghelt or the Agadez cross: symbol of the Tuaregs of the Sahara
Teneghelt or the Agadez cross: symbol of the Tuaregs of the Sahara
Teneghelt or the Agadez cross: symbol of the Tuaregs of the Sahara

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