Beta Samati

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.