Can I visit the historical sites of Aksum and see the obelisks?

Post ByAdequate Travel

Summary
Aksum is a remarkable ancient city in Ethiopia known for its impressive architectural wonders and monuments from the fourth century. One of the must-see sites is the splendid obelisks at the Royal Enclosure of Aksum. But can you actually visit the historical sites of Aksum and catch a glimpse of the majestic obelisks? Read on to find out! Before embarking on your journey to ethiopia, make sure to check the latest travel guidelines and entry requirements to ensure a smooth trip

Yes, you can visit the historical sites of Aksum and see the obelisks.

Here are some points to further explain:

1. Location of Aksum:

Aksum is located in the northern part of Ethiopia, in the Tigray region. It was once the capital city of the Aksumite Empire, which was a powerful ancient civilization.

2. Importance of Aksum:

Aksum is a UNESCO World Heritage site and holds significant historical and cultural value. It was a major center of trade, religion, and political power in the region, particularly between the 1st and 7th centuries AD.

3. Obelisks in Aksum:

Aksum is known for its towering obelisks, which are large monolithic structures carved from single blocks of stone. These obelisks were erected as funerary monuments for Aksumite rulers and served as symbols of their power and prestige.

Examples of famous obelisks in Aksum include:

- The Obelisk of Axum (also known as the Stele of Axum): This is the tallest standing obelisk in Aksum, measuring around 24 meters in height and adorned with intricate decorations.

- The Obelisk of Rome: This obelisk was originally taken from Aksum by the Italians during their occupation of Ethiopia in 1937. It was later returned to Ethiopia and re-erected in Aksum in 2008.

4. Visiting Aksum:

To visit Aksum and see the obelisks, you can fly into the nearest major airport in Ethiopia, which is Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. From there, you can take a domestic flight or travel by road to Aksum, which is approximately 1,000 kilometers north of Addis Ababa.

Once in Aksum, you can explore the historical sites, including the obelisks, by visiting the Aksum Archaeological Museum and the Northern Stelae Field where most of the obelisks are located.

It's worth noting that while some obelisks are still standing, others have collapsed over time. However, ongoing preservation efforts are being made to safeguard these ancient structures.

Remember to check the latest travel advisories and guidelines before planning your trip to Aksum, as conditions may vary.

The place is known for its rich history and culture, welcomes tourists with open arms. However, be sure to review the travel advisory and travel warnings to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

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