Fasil Ghebbi
The Fasil Ghebbi (Amharic: ፋሲል ግቢ) is a fortress located in Gondar, Amhara Region, Ethiopia. It was founded in the 17th century by Emperor Fasilides and was the home of Ethiopian emperors. Its unique architecture shows diverse influences including Hindu, Arab, and Jesuit Baroque characteristics. Because of its historical importance and architecture, the fortress was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Ghebbi is an Amharic word for a compound or enclosure.
Emperor Fasilides' castle, founded by him in the 17th century | |
Shown within Ethiopia | |
| Location | Gondar, Amhara Region, Ethiopia |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 12°36′27″N 37°28′12″E |
| History | |
| Builder | Fasilides |
| Founded | 1645 |
UNESCO World Heritage Site | |
| Official name | Fasil Ghebbi, Gondar Region |
| Type | Cultural |
| Criteria | (ii), (iii) |
| Designated | 1979 (3rd session) |
| Reference no. | 19 |
| Region | Africa |
The complex of buildings includes Fasilides' castle, Iyasu I's palace, Dawit III's Hall, Empress Mentewab's castle, a chancellery and library from Yohannes I, a banqueting hall from the emperor Bakaffa, stables, and three churches: Asasame Qeddus Mikael, Elfign Giyorgis and Gemjabet Mariyam.