Aksum, one of Ethiopia's oldest and most historically significant cities, is a place where the past comes alive amidst dramatic landscapes and profound spiritual heritage. Located in the northern Tigray region, Aksum was once the center of the Aksumite...more
Aksum, one of Ethiopia's oldest and most historically significant cities, is a place where the past comes alive amidst dramatic landscapes and profound spiritual heritage.
Located in the northern Tigray region, Aksum was once the center of the Aksumite Kingdom, a powerful civilization that thrived from the 4th to the 7th centuries. The city's most iconic landmarks are its towering stelae, or obelisks, some of which reach over 20 meters in height.
These remarkable monoliths are believed to mark the tombs of Aksumite kings and have earned Aksum its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The largest and most famous of these stelae is the Obelisk of Axum, which was returned to Ethiopia from Italy in the early 21st century.
Aksum's historical significance extends to its role in the spread of Christianity in Ethiopia. The city is said to be home to the Ark of the Covenant, and the Church of St. Mary of Zion is a revered pilgrimage site for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians.
While exploring the city, you'll encounter ancient tombs, archaeological sites, and inscriptions that offer glimpses into the Aksumite civilization's advanced culture and achievements. Aksum welcomes visitors from diverse backgrounds, and you'll find its residents to be warm and hospitable, eager to share their city's rich heritage.
Axum Airport (AXU)
While halal-specific restaurants may be limited in Aksum, you can enjoy traditional Ethiopian cuisine, which often adheres to halal dietary requirements.
Visitors can also inquire with locals about the addresses of the mosques in Aksum.
Prayer times for Āksum,Ethiopia