Aksum: The Forgotten Kingdom’s Legacy in Modern-Day Ethiopia

Foster an appreciation for the rich heritage of Ethiopia and the broader African continent.

The ancient kingdom of Aksum, part of modern-day Ethiopia, was once a prominent civilization. Aksum flourished between the 1st and 10th centuries AD, leaving behind an impressive legacy of architectural feats and cultural achievements. Explore its accomplishments and the reasons behind its mysterious decline into obscurity.

The Rise of Aksum

Founded around the 4th century BC, the kingdom of Aksum rose to prominence as a major trading center, connecting the Mediterranean world with the East African region. Its strategic location along the Red Sea coast facilitated trade routes with the Roman Empire, Arabia, and India, allowing Aksum to amass tremendous wealth and power.

Aksumite rulers were known for their ambitious building projects, which left a lasting mark on the region’s landscape. One of the kingdom’s most iconic structures is the Great Obelisk of Aksum, standing at an impressive 24 meters tall and weighing over 170 tons. Carved from a single block of granite, this colossal monument is a testament to the Aksumites’ extraordinary engineering skills and artistic prowess.