King Bazen's Tomb

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Despite being the crudest of tombs, roughly hewn into solid rock instead of constructed with fine masonry, this place has a slightly magical feel. According to local beliefs, King Bazen is thought not just to have reigned at Christ’s birth, but to have been Balthazar, and it was he who carried news of Christ's birth to Ethiopia. Whether true or not, judging from the number of tombs and stelae found nearby, the burial site may once have been quite large and important.

A rectangular pit above the tomb contains a row of burial chambers, including a few that appear to be unfinished.

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Nearby attractions

1. Ezana Park

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2. Old Palace

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This old palace was under reconstruction at the time of writing.

3. Basket Market

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Aksum has two interesting markets that burst to life on Saturday; both are best between 10.30am and noon. This one takes place under the massive fig tree…

4. Animal Market

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The animal market, south of town, is one of the biggest in the north. It’s ripe with donkeys, goats, sheep and cows, but no camels. These are only sold…

5. Main Market

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The main market, with spices and the like, runs all week, but is busiest on Saturday.

6. Ark of the Covenant Chapel

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7. St Mary of Zion Church Museum

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8. Old Church of St Mary of Zion

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