King Ezana's Stele

The Northern Stelae Field is Ethiopia's biggest and most important stelae field. It contains over 120 stelae, though the original number was higher - some have been removed, others probably lie buried. Although standing slightly off kilter, the magnificent 24m-high King Ezana's Stele at the field's entrance has done something no other stele of similar stature has - remained standing!

Henry Salt, the British traveller and first foreigner to describe it in 1805, proclaimed it 'the most admirable and perfect monument of its kind'.

It's considered by many as the most important of Aksum's stelae because it holds important religious significance. The stone platform at its base is believed to have served as an altar. Within the platform are four foot-deep cavities, which probably held sacrificial offerings. And what's the grand significance of all those little cavities? It depends on how important you think gabeta (a traditional board game) is! Kids will be kids no matter what century they live in.

Despite its pagan background, this stele has been embraced by the Ethiopian Orthodox church and is a centrepiece during the celebrations of Maryam Zion.

Taking an official guide with you is recommended.