Fasil Ghebbi

Fasil Ghebbi
Photo by Els Slots.

Fasil Ghebbi, Gondar Region, covers the remains of a fortress-city that was the residence of the Ethiopian emperor Fasilides and his successors in the 17th century.

The site comprises the buildings within the fortress and also 7 further monasteries and palaces around the city of Gondar. Fasil Ghebbi's building style became influential in Ethiopian architecture. 

Map of Fasil Ghebbi

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James Larsen

USA - 08-Jul-09 -

The road from the south from Bahir Dar goes along Lake Tana up to Gondar. Along the way is a heritage site that has ruins left from a 1500's castle with Portuguese influence where you would never expect to see it. Entering Gondar and seeing this magnificent and very much in tact site with many buildings was well worth the trip. And there are otehr things to do around this area including the famed Church with the angel faces.


Els Slots

The Netherlands - 11-Dec-03 -

Fasil Ghebbi by Els Slots

My first view of Gondar's heydays fell upon Fasiladas Baths. This pool lies in a rustic setting somewhat out of town. Sitting on the steps leading to the water, you can only imagine what it looks like during a major religious festival.

In the center of town, you find the Royal Enclosure. Here four castles and several other buildings from the 17th century remain. Still, the most prominent one is that of King Fasilades himself. Round-shaped towers characterize this European / Moghul-looking castle.

The whole historic area is amazing, and a pleasure to be in. Gondar's modern town is also a nice place to spend a few days.


Site Info

Full Name
Fasil Ghebbi, Gondar Region
Unesco ID
19
Country
Ethiopia
Inscribed
1979
Type
Cultural
Criteria
2 3
Categories
Structure - Palace
Link
By ID

Site History

1979 Inscribed

1978 Deferred

Bureau - ICOMOS want more info

Locations

The site has 8 locations

Fasil Ghebbi: Fasil Ghebbi palace compound
Fasil Ghebbi: Debre Berhan Selassie
Fasil Ghebbi: Bath of Fasilidas
Fasil Ghebbi: Kiddush Yohannes
Fasil Ghebbi: Qusquam (Monastery and Church)
Fasil Ghebbi: Thermal Area the Sosinios (also known as Maryam Ghemb)
Fasil Ghebbi: Gorgora (Monastery and Church)
Fasil Ghebbi: Palace of Guzara

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