Fasil Ghebbi
About Fasil Ghebbi
In 1636, Ethiopian Emperor Fasiladas established the city of Gondar in order to create a permanent establishment. During this time, between the sixteenth and seventeenth century, he added several castles, now known as the Fasiladas Palace. The structure features looming stone walls and large towers similar to that of medieval Europe, plus a 900m wall that surrounds the compound about 70,000 square metres in size. Juniper and olive trees are scattered within the enclosure.
Other notable buildings within Gondar include Enqulal Gemb (Egg Castle), named for its dome shaped roof, many churches, monasteries, and a stable. These buildings draw from many different inspirations, including Hindu and Arab influences.
In the north-west by the Qaha River are the Fasiladas Baths. This two-storied structure is perched on the edge of rectangular pool. The bathes are still in use for "Timket" or Baptism.
Other notable buildings within Gondar include Enqulal Gemb (Egg Castle), named for its dome shaped roof, many churches, monasteries, and a stable. These buildings draw from many different inspirations, including Hindu and Arab influences.
In the north-west by the Qaha River are the Fasiladas Baths. This two-storied structure is perched on the edge of rectangular pool. The bathes are still in use for "Timket" or Baptism.
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Getting there:
By Air
Ethiopia Air operates daily flights to Gondar. The airport is 17 km from town.
By Road
From Addis - the journey takes around 600km, and goes through Bahar Dar. Regular busses run this route. With stopovers, it may take up to 3 days.
From Shire (Inda silase) - a direct bus service is available for the 11 hour journey, swith a stop in Debark (4 hours from Gondar)
Ethiopia Air operates daily flights to Gondar. The airport is 17 km from town.
By Road
From Addis - the journey takes around 600km, and goes through Bahar Dar. Regular busses run this route. With stopovers, it may take up to 3 days.
From Shire (Inda silase) - a direct bus service is available for the 11 hour journey, swith a stop in Debark (4 hours from Gondar)
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First To Review:
Sep 11, 2009
The castles are easy to explore- we hired a guide for about 200 birr for a group of six, which made the whole experience more memorable and more interesting as we were given the stories behind the places. The baths are a short distance away, best reached by local mini bus or hire a tuk tuk. If your passing thru Gondar, i would explore these interesting castles. Can be done in half a day.
Jul 29, 2010
Visit a small Women's Cooperative where single mothers sell their handicrafts (mostly woven objects and ceramics) It's in a small village 10km from Gonder, ask for the ancient jewish village.
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