Gondar served as Ethiopia's capital from 1636 to 1855.
Gondar, often called the
"Camelot of Africa," is known for its well-preserved castles and
palaces. It was the royal capital of Ethiopia during the 17th and 18th
centuries. Served as Ethiopia's capital from 1636 until the mid-19th century.
This historic city blends modern elements with medieval architectural grandeur.
The city is famous for the Fasil Ghebbi, a UNESCO World Heritage site that
showcases a mix of Ethiopian, European, and Indian architectural styles.
Fasil Ghebbi: The Royal Compound
The architectural crown jewel of
Gondar is Fasil Ghebbi, a fortified royal enclosure. Built in the 1630s by
Emperor Fasil, the compound includes multiple castles and structures. The most
famous is the three-story castle, a blend of Portuguese, Indian, and Aksumite
influences. Fasil Ghebbi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also includes seven
other buildings, such as the stunning Debre Berhan Selassie Church, renowned
for its richly painted interior.
Historical Context
Before Gondar’s establishment,
Ethiopia experienced turmoil, including religious wars and internal strife.
Emperor Fasil founded Gondar in 1636 as a permanent capital after his father,
Susenyos I, abdicated. Gondar prospered as Ethiopia's political and economic
hub until the late 18th century, when sectarian conflicts led to its
fragmentation. A revival began in the mid-20th century, and today, Gondar’s population
exceeds 300,000.
Key Historical and Cultural Sites
Kuskuam Palace
Built in the 18th century for Empress
Mentewab, Kuskuam Palace sits on Debre Tsehay (Mountain of Sun). Though
partially ruined, its walls and banquet hall remain, adorned with paintings,
including a portrait of Abuna Yohannes, Patriarch of the Ethiopian Church.
Debre Berhan Selassie
Surviving the Mahdist attack of 1888,
Debre Berhan Selassie is Gondar’s most beautiful church. Consecrated in 1693,
it features vibrant ecclesiastic paintings, attributed to the artist Haile Meskel.
Its ceiling, decorated with rows of cherubic faces, is a national treasure.
Gorgora
Located 65 km south of Gondar on Lake
Tana, Gorgora is a tranquil port and a haven for birdwatchers. It hosts Debre
Sina Maryam, a 14th-century monastic church with paintings from the 1620s and a
revered portrait of the Virgin Mary. Nearby, Old Gorgora features ruins of a
castle and a Catholic church built by Spanish missionary Pedro Páez.
Natural Wonders
Gondar provides access to the Simien
Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for dramatic peaks,
endemic wildlife like gelada baboons, and hiking opportunities. Closer to town,
Wunenia offers a scenic day hike through montane landscapes.
The Beta Israel Legacy
Woleka, near Gondar, tells the story
of Ethiopia's Beta Israel (Falashas), an ancient Jewish community. While most
Beta Israel emigrated to Israel in the 1980s, Woleka retains an abandoned
synagogue and craft markets.
Events and Festivals
Gondar is renowned for Timkat, the
Ethiopian Orthodox celebration of Epiphany on January 19 (January 20 in leap
years). The highlight is the reenactment of Jesus’ baptism at Fasil’s Pool,
drawing thousands of participants and tourists.
Practical Information
Getting There
- By Road: Gondar is 730 km north of Addis Ababa, 176 km north of Bahir Dar,
and 355 km southwest of Aksum.
- By Air: Daily flights link Gondar to Addis Ababa, Lalibela, and Aksum. The
airport, 17 km south of the town centre, offers taxi and hotel transfer
services.
Getting Around
Taxis are readily available, and
guided tours can be arranged for city exploration or excursions to the Simien
Mountains.
Accommodation
Gondar offers a range of hotels, from
budget to luxury. Nearby retreats include Kossoye, Azazo, Gorgora, and lodges
in the Simien Mountains.
Did You Know?
- Emperor Fasil reportedly chose
Gondar because its name started with a 'G,' following an ancient tradition
for capital cities.
- Empress Mentewab’s name means
"How Beautiful Thou Art!"—a phrase exclaimed by Emperor Bakaffa
when he first saw her.
- The Tikil Dingay rock formation,
known as the Devil’s Nose, is a landmark on the road to Bahir Dar.
Further Reading
- Guide to Gondar and Lake Tana by Gian Paulo Chiari (2012)
- Bradt Guide to Ethiopia by Philip Briggs (7th edition, 2015)
- Gondar Tourist Office:
www.gondarcity.gov.et
- Amhara Tourism Bureau:
www.amharatours.org.et
Gondar remains a fascinating blend of
history, culture, and natural beauty—an essential destination for travellers
exploring Ethiopia.
