Dungur Palace: The Majestic Ruins of the Queen of Sheba
Journey to Dungur Palace in Aksum, Ethiopia - a historical landmark enveloped in the legends of the Queen of Sheba.
Dungur Palace, often referred to as the Queen of Sheba Palace, stands as a testament to the grandeur of ancient Aksumite civilization. Nestled in the historic city of Aksum in Ethiopia, this remarkable structure is shrouded in myths and legends, particularly its connection to the fabled Queen of Sheba. Visitors to Dungur Palace will be captivated by its impressive stone architecture, characterized by large, intricately carved blocks that have withstood the test of time. The palace is not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of the cultural and historical significance of the Aksumite Empire, which was once a leading power in the region. Exploring the palace grounds provides an opportunity to delve into Ethiopia's rich heritage. The site is surrounded by a serene landscape, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the area while contemplating the stories of the past. Guided tours are available, offering insights into the palace's history and the archaeological findings that have emerged from the site. The knowledgeable guides are eager to share tales of the Queen of Sheba and the legends that surround her, enhancing the visitor experience. The best time to visit Dungur Palace is during the dry season, from October to May, when the weather is more favorable for exploration. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven, and don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views and the intricate details of the palace. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, Dungur Palace promises an unforgettable journey into Ethiopia's past.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photographs.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the palace grounds can be uneven and require some walking.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the site's historical significance.
- Bring water and snacks, especially if you plan to spend a few hours exploring the area.
- Check local weather conditions before your visit, as the rainy season can affect accessibility.
A brief summary to Dungur Palace (Queen of Sheba Palace)
- 3, Aksum, ET
- +251924304010
Getting There
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Walking
Start at the Debre Markos Bus Station. Exit the bus station and head south on the main road towards the city center. Continue straight for about 1 km until you reach the intersection with the main square (Mekane Yesus Square). From the square, turn right onto the road heading towards Aksum. Follow this road for approximately 2 km. You will see signs for Dungur Palace (Queen of Sheba Palace) along the way. As you approach the palace, you will notice it is situated on a small hill. Follow the signs to the entrance. The total walking distance is about 3 km and should take around 30-40 minutes.
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Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from a local shop in Debre Markos. Start from the Debre Markos Bus Station and ride south towards the city center. Continue on the main road for about 1 km until you reach Mekane Yesus Square. Turn right at the square onto the road leading to Aksum. Cycle for approximately 2 km, following the signs that direct you towards Dungur Palace (Queen of Sheba Palace). You will have a scenic ride, and the total distance is about 3 km, which should take around 15-20 minutes of cycling.
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Local Transport (Bajaj)
From your location in Debre Markos, find a Bajaj (three-wheeled taxi) at a nearby stand or wave one down on the street. Tell the driver to take you to Dungur Palace (Queen of Sheba Palace). The driver should know the destination, but it's helpful to mention that it is located near Aksum. The Bajaj ride will take you directly to the entrance of the palace in about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.
Attractions Nearby to Dungur Palace (Queen of Sheba Palace)
- Ta'akha Myryam Place
- Aksum Old Quarter
- መቓብር ንጉስን ቤተሰቡን | The tomb of Mausoleum
- Axum Tsion St. Mary
- ኣኽሱም ሓውልት | ሓወልቲ ኣኽሱም ቑፅሪ-1 | Akhsum Obelisk No-1
- Photo Diary Aksum
- ንግስቲ ሳባ ማይ ሹም Queen of Saba’s Bath, Mai Shum
- Queen of Sheba's Bath
- TOMB OF KING BAZEN
- Ezana Stone
- May ako outdoor park ማይዓኮ መናፈሻ
- Addi Guatiya cruciform tombs
- Holly Land of Aksum | ምድረ ፅዮን ከተማ ኣኽሱም ኣጋግዘ ዝተለዓለ ፎቶ
- Kaleb tomb
- King Kaleb Palace
Landmarks nearby to Dungur Palace (Queen of Sheba Palace)
- ቤተ ክርስትያን እንዳ ኣርባዕተ እንስሳ / Arabtu Ensessa Church
- Aksum
- ቤተክርስቲያን እንዳየሱስ | Jesus Church
- Kahsay Beyene, Axum, Tigray
- ጥንታዊ እንዳ ፬ እንስሳ ቤተ ክርስትያን |The Ancient Church of Arbaetu Enssa
- Nyala Hotel Axum
- ጎቦዱራ ምስለ ኣንበሳ Lioness of GobeDura
- Atranos Fantasy Hotel and Spa
- Abba Pentalewon
- Rahwa Middle School
- Adi Quala Bus Station
- Adi Quala Hospital
- Eyamo ኢያሞ
- Adi Hihi
- Shum Agame Sebhat Subagadis Castle