About Axum
Axum is one of the oldest and most important cities in Africa — the center of the Axumite Empire, one of the most powerful civilizations of the ancient world. At its height between the 1st and 7th centuries AD, Axum controlled trade routes connecting Africa, Arabia, and India.
Today Axum is famous for its extraordinary collection of ancient stelae — towering obelisks carved from single blocks of granite, the largest of which stands 33 meters tall and weighs over 500 tons. The mechanics of how they were carved, transported and erected remain a mystery.
Axum is also believed to be the home of the Ark of the Covenant — the sacred chest containing the Ten Commandments — which Ethiopian Orthodox Christians believe has been kept at the Church of St. Mary of Zion for centuries.
Top Things to Do in Axum
Towering granite obelisks erected as monuments to ancient Axumite rulers. The largest standing stele is 24 meters tall — the tallest ancient monolith still standing in the world.
Ethiopia's most sacred church — believed to house the original Ark of the Covenant. The Ark itself is kept in a sanctuary that only one specially chosen monk may enter.
Ruins of a grand palace complex traditionally attributed to the legendary Queen of Sheba, who according to Ethiopian tradition was an Axumite queen named Makeda.
A fascinating collection of Axumite artifacts including ancient coins, pottery, and inscriptions in Ge'ez, Greek, and South Arabian scripts.
A trilingual stone inscription recording the conversion of the Axumite Empire to Christianity in the 4th century — one of the most important historical documents in Africa.
An ancient monastery perched atop a flat-topped mountain, accessible only by climbing a rope up a sheer cliff face. One of Ethiopia's most extraordinary and atmospheric sites.
Where to Stay in Axum
The best hotel in Axum — comfortable rooms, reliable service, and a convenient location for exploring the ancient sites.
A good mid-range option in central Axum with clean rooms, friendly staff, and easy access to the stelae fields.
How to Get to Axum
Fly from Addis Ababa to Axum Airport (AXU) — Ethiopian Airlines operates regular flights. Axum is best visited as part of the northern circuit combined with Lalibela and Gondar.
Best Time to Visit
October to April is the best time to visit. The ancient sites are best experienced in the morning before the midday heat. Axum's New Year celebration in September is spectacular.
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