Northern
Lalibela
Eleven medieval churches carved down into solid rock, and still in use today.
Northern Ethiopia
Axum
An ancient capital, known for its towering carved stelae and its churches.
Overview
About Axum
Axum was the centre of a trading kingdom that flourished about two thousand years ago. Its most striking legacy is a field of carved stone stelae, some of them among the tallest single stones ever raised.
The town also holds the church of St Mary of Zion, one of the holiest places in Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity, and tombs, ruins and a museum that put the kingdom in context.
- Region
- Northern
- Best time
- October to March
Highlights
What makes it worth the journey
Highlights
- The northern stelae field
- The church of St Mary of Zion
- The archaeological museum
- Ancient tombs and palace ruins
Things to do
- Explore the stelae and tombs with a guide
- Visit the museum first for context
- Take a day trip to nearby ruins and churches
- Walk through the town’s markets
Plan your visit
Before you go
Best time to visit
October to March; the feast of St Mary in late November draws large crowds
Getting there
Axum has an airport with flights from Addis Ababa. Roads link it to Adwa, Mekele and beyond.
Getting around
The sites are in and around the town; walking, three-wheelers or a car with a driver all work.
Good to know
- Some areas of Tigray have had travel restrictions; check current advice before planning.
- Dress modestly at church sites.
Keep exploring
More places to see
Northern
Northern
Gondar
The royal enclosure of Fasil Ghebbi, with castles built from the 17th century.
Northern
Simien Mountains
A high plateau of sheer escarpments, gelada baboons and long-distance trails.
Let us plan your Axum trip
Tell us when you want to travel and what you love. A local specialist will reply with a suggested plan and a clear price.