See the splendors of ancient Ethiopian civilization including several imposing castles dating back to the 16 th Century and churches, the most spectacular being Debre Berhan Selassie. Gondar is famous for its many medieval castles and the design and decoration of its churches.
The earliest of the castles was created by Fasilidas himself and is still in such an excellent state of repair that it is possible to climb its stairs all the way to the roof, which commands a breathtaking view over much of the city. The castles are made of stone and show a unique combination of Portuguese, Axumite and even Indian influences. |
|
Besides the famous castles , visitors can visit the so-called the Bathing Palace of Emperor Fasilidas , stood in a pool filled with water drawn by canal from a nearby river. The pool is generally empty today; however, once each year- during the annual Epiphany, ‘Timket’ celebrations it is filled again.
Other points of interest is the fantastically decorated church of Debrebirhan Silasie, built by King Iyasu I in the 1690s, The church is of great interest for the prolific paintings inside. The ceiling decorated with paintings of 80 cherubic faces is the most single example of ecclesiastic al art in Ethiopia. |
|
