Ethiopia is a state in Northeast Africa with a population of about 93 million. According to this indicator, Ethiopia is second only to Nigeria (among African countries). The capital of the state is the city of Addis Ababa. However, in earlier times, for more than two centuries, the capital of Ethiopia was another city - Gondar, where there are many interesting sights.
The main attraction of the former stlitsa of Ethiopia
The center of the historic province, founded in 1632 and the former capital of Ethiopia from 1638 to 1855, is located in the northwestern part of the state, about 30 kilometers north of Lake Tana. It is located at an altitude of over 2000 meters above sea level, and is home to about 200 thousand people. About 85% of residents are adherents of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.
The main attraction of Gondar is the powerful Fasil Gebbi fortress. It was built in the middle of the 17th century. And already at the beginning of the 18th century, it was partially destroyed by a strong earthquake. This fortress was restored. Subsequently, it suffered during the capture of the city by detachments of the Sudanese Mahdists (at the end of the 19th century), and especially during the bombing by British aircraft during the Second World War.
Ethiopia was then captured by the troops of fascist Italy, and the headquarters of the Italian occupation forces was located in the fortress. Therefore, she became a target for British bombers.
After a lengthy restoration carried out under the auspices of UNESCO, the ancient citadel was restored and reopened to the public. Tourists can admire the powerful fortress wall with high towers, Bakaffa Palace, Iyasu the Great Palace. The citadel, built in a mixed Portuguese-Moorish style, makes a great impression on visitors to the city.
What else is interesting about Gondar
In addition to the Fasin-Gebbi fortress, guests of the city will find something to see. Their attention will be drawn to the ancient baths of Fasilidas - the emperor of Ethiopia, who founded Gondar. The baths are located about 4 kilometers north of the fortress and are a beautiful two-story building surrounded by a pool and a fortress wall.
This pool is filled with water only once a year, during the religious festival of Epiphany.
More than 40 Christian churches have survived in the city (the majority of the country's population belongs to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church), as well as synagogues. These places of worship, along with the Fasil-Gebbi fortress, are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. If you are into history, be sure to visit this magnificent city. Mountain lovers will like this place, as there are many mountains, and this city is the highest point of the country. Also in Goner is the Simien National Park, opened in 1969.
