The Mysterious Stelae of Axum: Giants of Ancient Engineering
[Yerer, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; not the kingdom of Axum]
Photographer: Leti Tamrat
Ancient Ethiopia, known historically as the Kingdom of Aksum, is home to one of the most fascinating and enigmatic marvels of engineering: the giant stelae of Axum. These towering structures reach up to 24 metres (79 feet) in height, these were built over 1,700 years ago and remain a testament to the advanced craftsmanship and architectural intelligence of the Aksumite civilization.
The stelae of Axum were primarily created as markers for underground burial chambers and are intricately carved with multi-story false windows and doors, mimicking the architecture of Aksumite buildings. The largest of these stelae, known as the Great Stele, originally stood about 33 metres (108 feet) tall and weighed over 500 tons, making it one of the largest monolithic structures ever created in the ancient world. Unfortunately, it has since fallen and broken into several pieces, but its sheer size still astounds visitors and scholars alike.
What makes these stelae particularly intriguing is not just their size and craftsmanship but also the mystery surrounding their construction and transportation. The granite for these monumental structures was quarried several kilometres away from the site, raising questions about the methods and technologies used by the Aksumites to transport and build these massive stones. Some theories suggest that a combination of wooden sledges, rolling logs, and an immense labour force were employed to achieve this feat, showcasing the ingenuity and organisational capabilities of the ancient civilisation.
The purpose of the stelae goes beyond mere markers for burial sites; they are believed to have had significant religious and cultural importance. The inscriptions and symbols carved into some of the stelae hint at the Aksumite's beliefs, cosmology, and royal lineage. They also reflect the kingdom's connections with other ancient civilizations, as Aksum was a major trading empire, interacting with Roman, Persian, and Indian traders.
Exploring the stelae of Axum offers a fascinating glimpse into the sophisticated society that once thrived in ancient Ethiopia. These monolithic giants stand as enduring symbols of human ingenuity, cultural richness, and the historical significance of the Aksumite Kingdom in the broader tapestry of ancient history.
When you visit Axum and stand before these towering stelae, you are not just witnessing remnants of a bygone era but connecting with the echoes of an advanced civilization that left an indelible mark on the history of Ethiopia and the world.