History
Queens, emperors and biblical tales
Ethiopia encompasses a history that includes, not only the early biblical tales of the Queen of Sheba, but also the lives of ancient Abyssinian emperors, providing an experience which is rich in history, religion and tradition.
Ancient architecture
A journey through this country places you in a world of incredible architectural feats from towering stellae to age-old palaces.
This ancient land will tell the stories of the beginnings of power as you walk in the footsteps of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba.
Axum – the centre of trade
In its glory days at the turn of the first millennium, Axum was one of the four most important trading empires in the world. Ideally situated on the pathway to the Red Sea, the Nile valley and the great African Rift, it controlled the flow of gold and ivory to the hungry markets of the East and Europe.
Today, you can still discover the remains of ancient castles and fortresses in Ethiopia. Intricately carved granite Stella still stand – a testament to the achievements of an incredible civilisation dating back to the first centuries AD.
For those interested in history, Axum is a rich and fascinating destination to explore.
Gheralta – rugged and beautiful
The sandstone mountains in the region of Gheralta, in the Northern Tigray province, are one of Ethiopia’s best kept secrets.
Stunningly beautiful and rugged, they are a destination in themselves. In addition, intricately carved, rock-hewn churches are hidden deep and high in the sheer escarpments.
These ancient churches date back to the 4th and 5th centuries AD. They are often perched on cliff tops with incredible views of the surrounding countryside.
The churches are decorated with ornate painting and ancient script. Today, they are still functioning places of worship. It is possible to join a regular service and witness spectacular ceremonies dating back from earlier centuries.
Lalibela’s rock-hewn churches
Lalibela is Ethiopia’s religious centre. Founded in the 11th century, it is home to beautifully carved and decorated churches which have been hewn out of the ground. As the seat of power during the Zagwe dynasty, Lalibela strengthened its ties with the Orthodox Christian church.
Lalibela’s ancient churches, are also still in use and you will often come across a service on your travels. They offer an impressive feat of engineering with carved pillars and ornate roofs.
Gondar – Home of the Emperors
Gondar is the site of well-preserved castles and is known as ”The Camelot of Africa”. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Emperors made Gondar their home. Their stable rule set the foundations for modern day Ethiopia.
