Fasil Ghebbi, Fortress complex in Gondar, Ethiopia.
The Fasil Ghebbi compound contains four palaces, libraries, churches, and monasteries enclosed by a 900-meter stone wall in the Ethiopian highlands.
Emperor Fasilides established this fortified settlement as Ethiopia's imperial capital in 1636, which continued functioning as the government center until 1864.
The architecture combines Ethiopian Orthodox Christian elements with influences from Portuguese settlers, Indian traders, and Jesuit missionaries of the 17th century.
The entrance fee is 200 Birr, with local guides available to explain the various structures including the royal archive, stables, and ceremonial bath.
Within the fortress walls stand special enclosures that once housed Ethiopian lions, traditional symbols of imperial power in the region.
Location: Gondar
GPS coordinates: 12.60806,37.46972
Latest update: June 17, 2025 18:51
These fortifications represent military architecture from different periods. From the Alhambra in Spain to Malbork Castle in Poland, these structures demonstrate defense techniques and strategic planning. The collection spans Crusader castles, coastal fortresses, and mountain strongholds from Europe to Asia.
Ethiopia features medieval churches in Lalibela, mountain ranges in Simien National Park and ancient obelisks in Axum. The Danakil region displays sulfur springs and salt plains. The historic city of Harar Jugol and Bale Mountains complement the geological and cultural elements. Monasteries on Lake Tana islands, volcanic areas and national parks present the natural and architectural diversity of Ethiopia.
Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion
216.9 km
Church of Saint George
182.5 km
Ras Dashen
120 km
Monolithic churches in Lalibela
182.6 km
Simien Mountains National Park
91.1 km
Blue Nile Falls
125.4 km
Bet Amanuel
182.7 km
Ura Kidane Mehret
102.6 km
Bete Abba Libanos
183 km
Mount Abuna Yosef
193.4 km
Bete Gebriel-Rufael
182.9 km
Bete Merqorewos
183 km
Biete Lehem
182.9 km
Lioness of Gobedra
213.3 km
Church of Debra Berhan Selassie
1.2 km
Fasilides' Bath
1.7 km
Bete Golgota-Selassié
182.7 km
Asheton Maryam Monastery
186.3 km
Kuskwam
2.9 km
Angereb Reservoir
2 km
Martyrs Memorial Monument
112.1 km
Biet Debre Sina
182.7 km
Na’akueto La’ab
186.2 km
Stele di Mussolini
46.2 km
Ruins of Aksum
216.8 km
Azwa Mariam Monastery
103 km
Defeche Bridge
1.6 km
Genfokuch Bridge
3.7 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes