Gondar

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Details of Gondar

Known as the ‘Camelot of Africa’, historic Gondar is a UNESCO Cultural Heritage site home to a number of castles that reflect the glory days of the Abyssinian monarchy.

The city served as the capital from 1636 to 1864, and today is home to a university that has attracted younger Ethiopians and given the city a modern and cosmopolitan feel.

But it is the Castles of Gondar that draw tourists to the city, and the chance to wander their ancient streets and soak in the history is one not to be missed.

Of special note are the Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure), the Bath of Fasilides, and the Debre Birhan Selassie Church.

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Short Overview

You’d be forgiven for thinking you’re in Europe when you first see the stunning Gondar castles, but these impressive monuments were once the home to Ethiopia’s own monarchy.

Once home to kings and queens who ruled the country from the 12th to the 20th century, the Gondar castles allow visitors to imagine what life was like when the Abyssinian Empire was in its glory days. Remarkably, despite attacks from outsiders, the castles are well-preserved.

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Gondar