|
Gonder
Gonder was the 17th Century capital of
Ethiopia, and is notable for its medieval Castles and
churches. The City's unique imperial compound contains
a number of Castles built between 1632 and 1855 by the
various Emperors who reigned during this period. These
dramatic castles, unlike any other African, display a
richness in architecture that reveals the Axumite
traditions as well as the influence of Arabia.
Other treasure of Gonder include the 18th
Century palace of Ras Beit, the bath of Fasilades, the
reuined palace of Kusquam, and the church of Debre
Berhane Selassie with its unique murals
Description
Gondar is 50 kilometres north of Lake Tana, 500
kilometres north of Addis Ababa and nestles in the
foothills of the Simien mountains at 2,200 metres
above sea level. Gondor was the capital of Ethiopia
from the rise of Fasilades to the fall of Tewodros
(1855-68) which is reflected in the many castles and
palaces in the city.
Attractions
Castles
The city's main imperial precinct, known as the Royal
Enclosure, covers an area of 7.7 hectares and contains
five castles, raised walkways and connecting tunnels
surrounded by high stone walls.
The oldest of these is the Castle of Fasilades. Built
of stone in the mid-17th century it reflects a number
of influences, Axumite, Portuguese and Indian. The
upper storey offers panoramic views and Lake Tana is
visible on a clear day. The castle has been renovated
recently.
Fasilades grandson, Lyasu the great, built his own
castle and decorated it with ivory, gold and precious
stones but an earthquake in the early 19th caused
severe damage.
Other Attractions
The palace of Ras Beit, was built in the 18th century
as a private residence of the famous king maker, Ras
Mikael Sehul and has been in continuos occupation ever
since.
Bath of Fasilades is a sunken pool still used for the
Timkat Festival in January.
Accommodation
Abba Jelli Hotel, clean, good value with views of the
castles.
Fasilades, on the airport road. Clean and friendly,
safe parking for vehicles and a good restaurant.
Patrice Lumumba, close to the
piazza/telecommunications bldg (near the Misrak), the
sign is in Amharic You can barter over the price of
the hotel, restaurant attached.
Yimam, good value and with a restaurant next door.
Also has safe parking facility for vehicles.
There are many other E-grade range hotels in the
vicinity of the piazza/telecom buildings.
Fagera Hotel, basic, originally built by one of
Mussolini's fascists as a villa, spacious rooms.
Misrak Pension, Woreda 1, Kebeale 2, No 217, PO Box
391.
Where to Eat
Quara Hotel, government run hotel with restaurant.
Good value.
Tele Club, next to the stairs of the Post Office
-coffee, bread, excellent breakfasts.
Ethiopia Cafe, charming, old fashioned, ground floor
of hotel, packed all day, excellent coffee.
There are many other cheap cafes in the city centre.
Many of the cheap hotels also offer food
|
