Duration: Full Day

1. Morning: Historical and Archaeological Wonders

Meet at Hotel / Starting Point

• Brief overview of Axum’s significance as an ancient trade center and religious hub.

Axum Stelae Field (Obelisks of Axum)

• Visit the famous Stelae Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Explore the towering granite obelisks, including:
  • The Great Stela: 33 meters high (fallen), once the largest monolithic structure ever erected.
  • The Obelisk of Axum: A 1,700-year-old monument, returned to Ethiopia from Italy.
• Learn about the symbolic significance of these stelae in Aksumite burial culture.

Tombs of King Kaleb and King Gebre Meskel

• Discover the underground tombs of the Aksumite kings, located on a hill with beautiful views.
• Explore the architecture and hear stories about these legendary rulers.

Queen of Sheba’s Palace (Dungur Palace)

• Visit the ruins believed to be the Palace of the Queen of Sheba (Makeda).
• Learn about Ethiopia’s connection to the biblical Queen of Sheba and King Solomon.
• Explore the site’s rooms, stairways, and ancient drainage systems.

Lunch Break

• Enjoy Ethiopian dishes at a local restaurant like The Yeha Hotel Restaurant, offering views of Axum’s landmarks.

2. Afternoon: Religious and Cultural Highlights

Church of St. Mary of Zion

• Visit the most sacred site in Ethiopia, believed to house the Ark of the Covenant.
• Explore:
  • Old St. Mary of Zion Church: Built in the 17th century under Emperor Fasilides.
  • New St. Mary of Zion Church: Built in the 1960s.
  • The Chapel of the Ark: Though off-limits, it is said to guard the Ark of the Covenant.
• Learn about Axum’s deep spiritual significance for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians.

Ezana’s Stone Inscriptions

• Visit the Ezana Stone, Ethiopia’s equivalent to the Rosetta Stone.
• Discover inscriptions in three languages (Ge’ez, Greek, and Sabaean), showcasing Axum’s cultural and historical diversity.

Archaeological Museum of Axum

• Explore artifacts from Axumite civilization, including coins, pottery, and tools.
• Learn about Axum’s role as an ancient trade empire connecting Africa, Arabia, and the Mediterranean.

Queen of Sheba’s Bath

• Visit the large reservoir known as the Mai Shum or Queen of Sheba’s Bath.
• Hear about its use for local ceremonies, including Timkat (Epiphany).

3. Late Afternoon: Scenic Relaxation and Markets

Axum Local Market

• Explore Axum’s bustling market (active on Saturdays).
• Shop for souvenirs, handmade crafts, and local goods like coffee and spices.

Relax at a Viewpoint

• End the day with panoramic views of Axum’s landscape.
• Optional: Enjoy Ethiopian coffee or snacks at a local café.

Return to Hotel / End of Tour