Gondar
Enquire NowGondar is famed for its royal history, most notably the 17th-century castles and palaces of Fasil Ghebbi, its beautifully decorated churches, and its position as a former imperial capital of Ethiopia. Set on the northern highlands, Gondar is also a gateway to the Simien Mountains.
Building on this imperial legacy, Gondar offers a rare glimpse into Ethiopia’s medieval past, when it served as the political, cultural and religious heart of the country. The fortified royal enclosure of Fasil Ghebbi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a striking reminder of a time when Ethiopian emperors ruled from stone castles unlike anywhere else in sub-Saharan Africa. Nearby, the richly painted interiors of Debre Berhan Selassie Church reveal vivid biblical murals that remain among the most celebrated examples of Ethiopian religious art.
Beyond its historical significance, Gondar is an atmospheric city where everyday life unfolds against a backdrop of ancient walls, bustling markets and traditional neighbourhoods. It also serves as the natural starting point for journeys into the dramatic landscapes of the Simien Mountains, where deep valleys, sheer escarpments and endemic wildlife create some of the most spectacular scenery in Africa.
Together, Gondar’s history, living culture and proximity to wild highlands make it an essential stop for travellers seeking to understand Ethiopia’s past while experiencing its extraordinary sense of place.