Gondar Castle
One of the most beautiful historical sites in Ethiopia, Gondar Castle is the name given to an extensive complex of palaces and castles in Gondar, Ethiopia. Locals and guidebooks refer to it as the Royal Enclosure. It is located in the town center and is easily accessible by foot or tuk-tuk. Fasil Ghebbi Palace is another name for it. This was one of the most intriguing and well-preserved sights we saw in Ethiopia, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The entire structure, which spans 70,000 square meters and goes back to the 17th century, is known as the Camelot of Ethiopia by historians.
When you enter the facility and purchase your ticket, you will be accosted by a member of the local tour guide organization. Having a guide is optional, so don't feel obligated to hire one. We chose to depend on some material from our guidebook, which resulted in us missing out on the complete experience of the place.
Fasil Gemb, also known as Fasilides' Palace, is the first structure on your right. By far the most spectacular edifice in the complex. Designed by an Indian architect and notable for its various fusions of Indian, Portuguese, and Moorish elements. Emperor Fasilides defied convention by establishing and claiming Gondar as his capital. He enclosed his palace with a wall that had twelve gates, and inside that wall is what is now known as the royal enclosure. While at Fasilides' Palace, explore the dining halls, reception area, and prayer chamber; keep an eye out for the Star of David reliefs.
After you've completed Fasilides' Palace, the kitchen, and the steam bath structures, seek for the remnants of Iyasu I's Palace. Even though it is mostly a shell, walking among the remains and imagining what it was is fascinating. We walked past the Library, which had been plastered over by the Italians and was now closed, to Fasilides' Archive. Only the tower and walls remain from the archive, however you may climb the steps to get a better view of the grounds.
Address: Gondar, Amhara, Semien Gondar, Ethiopia
