The northernmost stop along the route, Axum is the site of Ethiopian’s most ancient city and is renowned for its cathedral of St. Mary of Zion where, it is claimed, the original arc of the covenant is housed. Axum is also famous for its mysterious and ancient monolithic Stelaes, all hewn from single pieces of granite, some of which are carved with images of door and windows. The biggest, 33 meters long and weighted over 500 tons, were the largest monolith in the world, but fell at some remote period in the past.

Other important attraction include The remains of an early Axumite palace, popularly thought to have belonged to the Queen of Sheba, are well worth a visit. The remains are located at Dangur, near the mountain from which the obelisks were originally excavated. The beautifully worked tombs of several ancient Axumite rulers and the local archaeological museum are also worth a visit, there are a number of rock hewn cherishes and monastery around the town of Axum that can be visited in a day excursion from Axum.