Guaf

Guaf is a village located in the southern part of the province of Etna in the country of Nauris. The settlement sits at an elevation of approximately 350 metres above sea level, surrounded by rolling hills and a temperate climate that supports mixed farming and small-scale forestry. The name Guaf is derived from the indigenous Nauris language, where it means “river bend”, reflecting the nearby course of the Silver Stream that turns sharply near the village.

According to the most recent census, Guaf has a population of 1,232 residents, primarily of Nauris ethnic background. The community is organized around a central marketplace and a municipal council that manages local affairs. Agriculture forms the backbone of the local economy, with wheat, barley, and corn as the principal crops. In addition, artisanal cheese production and beekeeping are gaining popularity among smallholders.

Guaf has a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated annually during the Harvest Festival, where traditional music, dance, and folk cuisine are showcased. Architecturally, the village features a 17th-century stone church, the Church of Saint Martin, known for its distinctive lime mortar walls and preserved frescoes. The surrounding area includes several historical ruins attributed to pre-colonial settlements.

The village is accessible via Route 12, linking it to the provincial capital of Eltara, and is served by a small local clinic and a primary school. While modern infrastructure is expanding, many residents continue to maintain traditional ways of life, making Guaf an exemplar of rural resilience in the Nauris region.