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Ethiopia

Beta Samati

Aksumite settlement with early Christian basilica.

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

About

Beta Samati, located near Yeha in northern Ethiopia's Tigray Region, is a significant archaeological site representing an Aksumite settlement. It was occupied from approximately 750 BCE until the 7th century CE. The site is notable for its early Christian basilica, which is potentially the earliest known Christian building in sub-Saharan Africa. Archaeological findings include a range of artifacts such as a gold intaglio ring, stone pendant, bucranium, incense burners, cow figurines, and coins depicting the Aksumite kings Armah and Ezana. These discoveries provide valuable insights into the cultural and religious practices of the Aksumite civilization and its early adoption of Christianity. The site is a testament to the historical significance of the region as a center of early Christian culture and Aksumite civilization.

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Religious and Ritual Structures

Churches

Artistic and Decorative Features

Inscriptions

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Towns

Historical Timeline

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Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Ethiopia
Source
Wikipedia