Discover Ancient Africa

Ethiopia is a country that breathes ancient history and mystique. Not only is Ethiopia one of the oldest sites of human existence but this East-African country is one of the oldest in the world. The history of Ethiopia’s monarchy traces back several centuries BC and has left a country that not only has a fascinating scenic and cultural diversity but a rich and intriguing history manifested in some of the world’s most amazing historical monuments.

Ethiopia is one of the few African countries that remained independent through most of its history. The Aksumite Empire rose to importance during the 1st century AD. The area then became a major trading hub between the Roman Empire and Ancient India. During the 4th century Ethiopia became one of the first Christian countries. Ethiopia remained independent well into the 20th century, fighting off Italian attempts of colonialism. The 20th century was marked by the rain of Emperor Haile Selassie, one of the most influential rulers in African history and the incarnation of Jah in the Rastafarian religion. A Soviet-backed military junta deposed Selassie in 1974, turning Ethiopia into a communist state for the next 20 years.

The years of communist rule and war with Eritrea have left Ethiopia’s economy in a bad state. Nonetheless Ethiopia remains a treasure chest of ancient monuments and religious mystique. Combine this with stunning landscapes and the indigenous fauna and you have an adventure that will be inspiring to say the least.

Ethiopia is the African country with the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The long tradition of monarchs and emperors left behind fascinating monuments, opening a window into a unique history. The North of Ethiopia is home to the Lalibela – the New Jerusalem. During the reign of Saint Gebre Mesqel Lalibela in the 12th and 13th century monolithic churches were hewn out of stone to partly mimic the city of Jerusalem. These awe-inspiring monuments still have religious importance to the Ethiopian Orthodox Christians, who pilgrimage to these rocky hills.

The city of Axum still bears many remains of the Aksumite Empire, the powerful kingdom that ruled the borders of the red sea in ancient times. Large stelae rise up to 24 metres from the ground and supposedly mark ancient graves. The St Mary of Zion Church is said to contain the Ark of the Covenant and many other monuments in the city are shrouded in legend.

The city of Gondar became the imperial capital, when Emperor Fasilides grew tired of the nomadic lifestyle and founded the city in 1635. The large amount of medieval monuments centres around Fasilides Castle. The large stone building has Nubian, Arab and Baroque influences, a sight hardly expected in Eastern Africa.

Due to the current economic situation, Ethiopia is not the easiest country to travel. However expert tour guides can make the ancient history and vast landscapes of this beautiful country accessible. Expedition Africa offers Ethiopia tours that combine that fascination of the age-old monuments with trekking in breathtaking mountain scenery. Prepare for an inspiring adventure!