The Camelot of Africa; Gondar
Dubbed the Camelot of Africa, the city of Gondar was the capital of Ethiopia from 1636 until the mid 19th century combines a modern veneer with an architectural sensibility harking back to the Middle Ages. The city’s physical and architectural centerpiece is Fasil Ghebbi, a stone-walled Royal Compound containing half a dozen fairytale castles including the three-story original built by Emperor Fasil in the 1630s. The Fasil Ghebbi UNESCO World Heritage Site also incorporates several more remote constructions, most notably the Church of Debre Berhan Selassie, with its beautifully painted interior.
Here’s a short list of things to do in Gondar, Ethiopia:
1. Visit Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure)
- Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring medieval castles and palaces built by Emperor Fasilides and his successors.
2. Debre Berhan Selassie Church
- Admire the stunning ceiling adorned with iconic angelic faces and intricate Ethiopian Orthodox Christian artwork.
3. Fasilides’ Bath
- Discover this historic bathing pool used for religious ceremonies, especially during Timkat (Epiphany).
4. Empress Mentewab’s Kuskuam Palace
- Visit the ruins of the 18th-century palace, known for its historical significance and serene surroundings.
5. Gondar Market
- Experience local life and shop for traditional crafts, spices, and handmade goods.
6. Woleka Village
- Explore this former Falasha (Ethiopian Jewish) village and learn about its history and cultural heritage.
1.Gondar Hills Resort: This is one of the best resort to stay in not only in Gondar but also in the entire country. The place where the resort situated in is captivating. The architecture of the rooms is incredible.
2. Goha Hotel: Nestled on the hill top side of Gondar, the hotel gives a panoramic view of the city of Gondar.
3. Haile Resort Gondar: This chain hotel provides modern ameneties and best services in the city of Gondar.
Here’s a list of must-visit places in Gondar, Ethiopia:
1. Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure)
- A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning medieval castles, palaces, and historic ruins from the 17th and 18th centuries.
- Known as the “Camelot of Africa.”
2. Debre Berhan Selassie Church
- Famous for its beautifully painted ceiling featuring cherubic angels and intricate Ethiopian Orthodox Christian artwork.
- A cultural and architectural gem.
3. Fasilides’ Bath
- A historic bathing pool used for royal ceremonies and still an important site for Timkat (Epiphany) celebrations.
4. Empress Mentewab’s Kuskuam Palace
- The ruins of an 18th-century palace complex that offers insights into Ethiopia’s royal history.
5. Qusquam Monastery
- A peaceful historical site with serene surroundings and a fascinating history tied to Empress Mentewab.
6. Woleka Village
- Formerly a Falasha (Ethiopian Jewish) village, now a cultural site with historical significance and unique architecture.
7. Dashen Brewery
- Take a tour of Ethiopia’s largest brewery and enjoy a taste of the country’s popular Dashen beer.
9. Gondar Markets
- Explore vibrant local markets to shop for traditional crafts, spices, and textiles.
Gondar, Ethiopia, has a temperate climate with distinct wet and dry seasons due to its elevation of about 2,200 meters (7,200 feet). Here’s a short overview:
1. Temperatures
- Mild Year-Round: Average temperatures range between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F).
- Warmest Months: March to May, with daytime highs around 27°C (81°F).
- Coolest Months: November to January, with cooler nights around 10°C (50°F).
2. Rainfall
- Wet Season: June to September, with heavy rains peaking in July and August.
- Dry Season: October to May, with minimal to no rainfall, making it ideal for travel.
3. Best Time to Visit
- October to February: The dry season offers clear skies and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring historical sites and nearby attractions like Simien Mountains National Park.
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