Axum

Axum was the 1st capital of Ethiopia for about 10 centuries. It was among the four powerful kingdoms of the world during the 1stand 6th centuries. The giant monolithic stele of Axum, hewn from a single granite rock during the 2nd century, is incredible. Among them the largest one measures 33 meters and fell down for unknown reason. The other, still standing, measures 23 meters from the earth. In 326 A.D., king Ezana accepted Christianity officially and constructed the first church on the land of Africa in Axum. The original Ark of the Covenant which is brought by emperor Menelik I, the son of queen of Sheba & king Solomon of Israel, resides in the chapel next to St. Mary of Zion church.