Located in northern Ethiopia, Axum is one of the most important historical and archaeological sites in Africa. Axum was a major trading empire connecting Africa with the Middle East and beyond.

Today, the city is known for its towering obelisks, ancient ruins, and deep religious significance.​​​​

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What to See 
 

Obelisks of Axum

These massive stone stelae, some dating back nearly 2,000 years, are among the most iconic monuments in Ethiopia. They were erected as markers for ancient tombs.

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Church of St. Mary of Zion

One of Ethiopia’s most sacred religious sites, traditionally believed to house the Ark of the Covenant.

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Queen of Sheba’s Palace (Archaeological Site)

Ruins associated with the legendary Queen of Sheba, reflecting Axum’s rich blend of history and mythology.

 

A Brief History

The Kingdom of Axum was one of the great civilizations of the ancient world, flourishing between the 1st and 7th centuries AD. It was among the first states to adopt Christianity and played a key role in regional trade.

Axum’s influence extended across the Red Sea and into the Arabian Peninsula.

​The many ancient tombs, castles, stelae, and artifacts found in Axum testify that this modest town was once the heart of one of the world’s great empires. From the 1st century BC to the 7th century AD, the Axumite Empire stood as one of the most advanced civilizations of its age, with far-reaching trade networks and remarkable engineering achievements. Perhaps the most famous figure linked to Axum is the legendary Queen of Sheba (Makeda). Ethiopian tradition tells that when she visited King Solomon in Jerusalem, she bore him a son—Menelik I. Menelik would become Ethiopia’s first emperor and, according to legend, returned from Israel carrying with him the Ark of the Covenant. Axum claims to house the Ark to this day, kept within a special chapel in the compound of St. Mary of Zion Church, guarded by a single monk whose sacred duty is to never leave the enclosure. The city is also home to towering granite stelae, massive obelisks that serve as eternal symbols of Axum’s grandeur. The return of the largest stele from Italy in 2005 was celebrated across Ethiopia, restoring one of the nation’s most iconic monuments to its rightful place.

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Where Is Axum?

Axum is located in northern Ethiopia and is typically visited as part of the historic northern route, together with Gondar, Lalibela, and Lake Tana.

 

Visiting Axum
Most travelers reach Axum by domestic flight or as part of a broader itinerary through northern Ethiopia.
Axum is included in our Northern Ethiopia tours, often combined with Gondar, Lalibela, and the Simien Mountains.

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Travel Tips

• Axum is situated at an altitude of around 2,100 meters

• Historical sites are spread across the town and are easily accessible

• The best time to visit is during the dry season (October to March)

 

Plan Your Visit
Axum offers a fascinating journey into Ethiopia’s ancient past and remains one of the country’s most important cultural destinations.

Explore our Northern Ethiopia tour to include Axum in a complete itinerary
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