1. Axum, Ethiopia: This historic city, which is regarded as the center of the Aksumite Empire, is well-known for its obelisks, which date to the fourth century AD. This is also the location of the Church of St. Mary of Zion, which is thought to contain the Ark of the Covenant.
2. Lalibela, Ethiopia: Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is well-known for its rock-hewn cathedrals. For Ethiopian Orthodox Christians, these eleven monolithic churches—carved out of rock in the 12th century—are a significant place of pilgrimage.
3. Gondar, Ethiopia: Sometimes referred to as the “Camelot of Africa,” Gondar is home to a number of 17th-century castles and palaces. Ethiopian rulers’ magnificent architecture is on display at the Royal Enclosure, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
4. Harar Jugol, Ethiopia: This ancient walled city is known for its narrow alleyways, traditional houses, and the famous hyena feeding ritual.
5. The Old City of Mogadishu, Somalia: Once a thriving coastal city, Mogadishu’s Old Town features remnants of ancient architecture, including the Arba’a Rukun Mosque and the ruins of the 13th-century Fakr ad-Din Mosque.
6. Keren, Eritrea: This town played a significant role during World War II and contains several historical sites, including the British War Memorial and the impressive 19th-century Italian colonial architecture.
7. Asmara, Eritrea: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Asmara is known for its well-preserved Italian Modernist architecture from the colonial period. Notable buildings include the Fiat Tagliero Building and the Asmara Cathedral.
8. The Rock-Hewn Churches of Tigray, Ethiopia: These lesser-known churches are carved into cliffs and mountains in the Tigray region. They date back to the 4th century and offer breathtaking views, along with a deep sense of history.
9. The Island of Suakin, Sudan: Once a major port city, Suakin features the ruins of 16th-century coral houses and mosques. It was a hub for trade and cultural exchange in the Red Sea region.
10. The Pyramids of Meroe, Sudan: Located in the Nubian Desert, these pyramids are part of the ancient Kingdom of Kush. The site contains over 200 pyramids, showcasing the rich history of this civilization.