Discover the Rich Heritage of Aksum Old Quarter
Explore the Aksum Old Quarter: A UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history, culture, and ancient architectural marvels.
Aksum Old Quarter is a remarkable testament to Ethiopia's illustrious past and is often regarded as one of the country's most significant archaeological sites. This ancient city was once the heart of the Aksumite Empire, which thrived between the 4th century BC and the 7th century AD. Visitors to the Old Quarter can explore a wealth of historical landmarks, including the famed stelae, which are towering obelisks that served as grave markers for Aksum's kings and elite. The most prominent of these, the Great Stele of Aksum, stands at an impressive height of 24 meters, showcasing the architectural prowess of its time. As you stroll through the Old Quarter, you'll also encounter the remnants of ancient churches, such as the Church of St. Mary of Zion, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant, adding a layer of spiritual significance to your visit. Beyond its historical allure, the Aksum Old Quarter is alive with the vibrant culture of modern Ethiopia. Local artisans and vendors line the streets, offering handcrafted goods and traditional Ethiopian coffee, inviting tourists to engage with the community. Be sure to sample the local cuisine, which features dishes rich in flavor and history, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped Aksum over centuries. The area's unique blend of ancient monuments and contemporary culture makes it a captivating destination for travelers seeking to understand Ethiopia's complex heritage. Whether you're an archaeology enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply looking for breathtaking sights, Aksum Old Quarter promises an unforgettable experience that connects you to the roots of Ethiopian civilization.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful exploration of the ancient monuments.
- Don’t miss the local artisan shops where you can purchase unique souvenirs that reflect the rich culture of Aksum.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and scenic views of the Old Quarter.
- Engage with local guides who can provide deeper insights into the historical significance of the sites.
- Try the local cuisine at nearby restaurants for an authentic taste of Ethiopian flavors.
A brief summary to Aksum Old Quarter
- 4PH8+C35, Unnamed Road, Aksum, ET
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Axum, head towards the main street (Unnamed Road). Walk north until you reach the intersection with the main road leading to the St. Mary of Zion Church. Turn right onto this main road. Continue walking for about 500 meters until you see a sign pointing towards Aksum Old Quarter. Follow the sign, and you will arrive at the entrance of the Aksum Old Quarter, located at the coordinates 4PH8+C35.
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Bicycle
If you have access to a bicycle, you can start from the Axum market area. Cycle towards the main street (Unnamed Road) and head north. After approximately 1 kilometer, take a right turn onto the road leading to St. Mary of Zion Church. Follow this road for about 500 meters and look for the sign indicating Aksum Old Quarter. The entrance is located at 4PH8+C35.
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Public Transport (if available)
While public transport options within Axum may be limited, you can ask locals about any available minibus or tuk-tuk services heading towards the Aksum Old Quarter. If you find one, tell the driver your destination (Aksum Old Quarter) and they will drop you off nearby. From there, simply walk towards the coordinates 4PH8+C35 to reach the entrance.
Attractions Nearby to Aksum Old Quarter
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Ta'akha Myryam Place
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Axum Tsion St. Mary
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መቓብር ንጉስን ቤተሰቡን | The tomb of Mausoleum
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Photo Diary Aksum
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ኣኽሱም ሓውልት | ሓወልቲ ኣኽሱም ቑፅሪ-1 | Akhsum Obelisk No-1
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ንግስቲ ሳባ ማይ ሹም Queen of Saba’s Bath, Mai Shum
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ቤተ መንግስቲ ንግስቲ ሳባ | Dungur Palace (Queen of Sheba Palace)
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Queen of Sheba's Bath
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TOMB OF KING BAZEN
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Ezana Stone
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May ako outdoor park ማይዓኮ መናፈሻ
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Addi Guatiya cruciform tombs
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Holly Land of Aksum | ምድረ ፅዮን ከተማ ኣኽሱም ኣጋግዘ ዝተለዓለ ፎቶ
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Kaleb tomb
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King Kaleb Palace
Landmarks nearby to Aksum Old Quarter
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ቤተ ክርስትያን እንዳ ኣርባዕተ እንስሳ / Arabtu Ensessa Church
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Aksum
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ቤተክርስቲያን እንዳየሱስ | Jesus Church
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Kahsay Beyene, Axum, Tigray
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ጥንታዊ እንዳ ፬ እንስሳ ቤተ ክርስትያን |The Ancient Church of Arbaetu Enssa
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Nyala Hotel Axum
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Atranos Fantasy Hotel and Spa
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Abba Pentalewon
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ጎቦዱራ ምስለ ኣንበሳ Lioness of GobeDura
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Rahwa Middle School
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Adi Quala Bus Station
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Adi Quala Hospital
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Eyamo ኢያሞ
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Adi Hihi
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Shum Agame Sebhat Subagadis Castle