Gondar
The next stop on the historic route is the graceful city of Gondar. Founded by Emperor Fasilidas in 1603. The city was Ethiopia’s capital until the reign of the would-be reforming Emperor Tewodros II, also known as Theodore. During its long years as a capital, the settlement emerged as one of the largest and most populous cities in the realm. It was a great commercial centre, trading with the rich lands south of the Blue Nile, as well as with sudan to the west and the Red Sea port of Massawa to the north-east. 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 of the roof, which commands a breathtaking view over much of the city. Besides the famous palaces, visitors should inspect the Bathing place of Emperor Fasilidas, which is used for the annual Timker or Epiphany celebration, and the abbey of the redoubtable 18th-century Empress Mentewab as Qwesquam, in the mountains just outside Gondar.

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Debre Damo
Some two hours drive from Axum – plus a further one hours, stiff uphill walk from the point where the road ends – lies the monastery of Debre Damo, situated on a clifftop in one of the wildest parts of Tigray. Debere Damo is unique and unforgettable. The bluff on which Damo stands is a real – life Shangri-La. Remote and beautiful, far from the hustle and bustle of the 21st century, the cool celestial island of rock offers panoramic views over the surrounding countryside and complete seclusion and peace for the hundred or so monks and deacons who live there. The monastery’s treasures include an extensive collection of illuminated manuscripts and the intricate carving on the beams and ceiling of the ancient around which the monastery is built.