Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ARCHITECTURE
Ethiopia boasts some remarkable historical architecture. Though some monuments, such as
the castles of Gonder, show foreign influence, earlier building styles, such as those deve-
loped during the Aksumite period, are believed to be wholly indigenous and are of a high
technical standard.
More recently, the Italians left behind a few impressive bits of fascist architecture (Gon-
der has a couple of memorable buildings as does Dire Dawa) and the Derg left behind some
Soviet-style works (check out the Derg monument in Addis).
Aksumite Architecture
The 'Aksumite style' of stone masonry is Ethiopia's most famous building style. Walls
were constructed with field stones set in mortar, along with sometimes finely dressed
cornerstones. In between came alternating layers of stone and timber, and protruding ends
of round timber beams, known as 'monkey heads'. The latter are even symbolically carved
into Aksum's great obelisks (
Click here
), which may just be the nation's greatest architec-
tural achievements. The Aksumites were undoubtedly master masons.
The best examples of Aksumite buildings are
seen at Debre Damo and the church of Yemre-
hanna Kristos (
Click here
)
.
The Aksumite style is additionally seen in
Lalibela's rock-hewn churches, particularly in
the shape of the windows, as well as in modern
design today. Keep an eye out for the ancient motifs in new hotel and restaurant designs.
The Zagwe dynasty responsible for the Lalibela
churches may have built them in order to legitimise
their rule to the general population.
Rock-Hewn Architecture
Ethiopia's rock-hewing tradition probably predates Christianity and has resulted in nearly
400 churches across the country. The art form reached its apogee in the 12th and 13th cen-
turies in Lalibela, where the Zagwe dynasty produced 11 churches that continue to astound.
They're considered among the world's finest early Christian architecture.
