Today we arrived at another World Heritage Site. Axum, in northern Ethiopia near the Adwa mountain range, is the holiest of all Ethiopian cities. The ancient kingdom of Axum is characterized by giant obelisks erected as tombs for the kings and their families. The area also claims to house the Ark of the Covenant, and the city is a pilgrimage destination for Christians. There are two St. Mary of Zion Churches (old and new) revered as holy sites. Entrance to the old church is prohibited to women as the legend blames the burning of the original on a woman. The Ark is claimed to be housed in a chapel known as The Chapel of the Tablet and is guarded by a monk who resides there.

The afternoon was spent shopping in the local artisans’ shops. Good bargains were found for silver, crosses, church icons, traditional dresses, and geodes. Bargaining is acceptable and the local children are excellent salesmen, many times running alongside our vehicle and magically appearing wherever our van stopped. 

Over the next few days we will be visiting water projects with our partners here, REST. 

 

 

Today we arrived at another World Heritage Site. Axum, in northern Ethiopia near the Adwa mountain range, is the holiest of all Ethiopian cities. The ancient kingdom of Axum is characterized by giant obelisks erected as tombs for the kings and their families. The area also claims to house the Ark of the Covenant, and the city is a pilgrimage destination for Christians. There are two St. Mary of Zion Churches (old and new) revered as holy sites. Entrance to the old church is prohibited to women as the legend blames the burning of the original on a woman. The Ark is claimed to be housed in a chapel known as The Chapel of the Tablet and is guarded by a monk who resides there.

The afternoon was spent shopping in the local artisans’ shops. Good bargains were found for silver, crosses, church icons, traditional dresses, and geodes. Bargaining is acceptable and the local children are excellent salesmen, many times running alongside our vehicle and magically appearing wherever our van stopped. 

Over the next few days we will be visiting water projects with our partners here, REST.