The Monastery of Pantaleon, situated 5km from Axum on a pinnacle known as Debre Katin, is one of the oldest churches in Ethiopia
There is something about Axum, its wide streets, little traffic, dry sunny climate, ancient monuments and all-pervading air of mystery. Fact and fiction collide here and it is fascinating to speculate on what is true and what is not in this special place. This is the view I had formed of this enigmatic city from previous visits. So I was keen to return to see if it exuded that same mystical atmosphere and to enjoy its treasures again.
From the twin turboprop aircraft on the way to Axum’s regional airport, incredible views opened up of vast plateaus, a plethora of deep gorges, the towering Simien Mountains and the River Tekeze dam, with its huge, picturesque lake — a study of blue water and rose-hued mountains. On arrival, I was met by an old friend, Dawit Tesfay, owner of Covenant Tours.