Unveiling Axum's ancient monoliths and festivals
What's the story
The ancient city of Axum, Ethiopia, holds a wealth of history and culture waiting to be discovered.
Its majestic obelisks, archaeological wonders, and colorful festivals transport you back in time, offering a unique peek into the past.
Once the powerful capital of the Aksumite Empire, this city's enduring legacy continues to captivate visitors from around the globe.
Stelae Fields
Walk among giants: The Stelae Fields
The Stelae Park in Axum isn't your typical open-air museum.
Imagine walking among ancient monolithic obelisks that pierce the sky, some towering over 20 meters high.
These colossal granite sentinels are thought to mark the graves or commemorate the victories of long-forgotten rulers.
There's something truly humbling about standing in the shadows of these silent witnesses to a civilization that thrived over a millennium ago.
Museum visit
Discover history: The Archaeological Museum
The Axum Archaeological Museum is an essential destination for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the ancient city's rich history and culture.
It houses a collection of artifacts, including ancient coins, pottery, and inscriptions, each piece telling the story of Axum's past as a hub of trade and culture.
Don't miss this museum! It's a key to appreciating the layers of history in this region.
Timket festival
Experience tradition: Timket festival
Timket, held in January in Axum, is Ethiopia's most colorful festival, celebrating the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River.
This event provides a fascinating insight into local customs, as you see people dressed in traditional clothes, carrying replicas of the Ark of Covenant, and there is singing and dancing everywhere.
Sacred visit
Explore sacred grounds: Church of St. Mary of Zion
The Church of St. Mary of Zion, which is said to contain the Ark of Covenant, holds special significance for understanding Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity.
It emphasizes the profound influence of religion on culture, offering visitors the opportunity to witness ancient traditions and the historical importance of the church in Axum.