Beta Samati
Date:
Fourth to seventh century
Location or Findspot (Modern-Day Country):
Ethiopia
Description:
In 2009, an archaeological survey near Aksum, the capital of the Kingdom of Aksum (modern-day Ethiopia and Eritrea), uncovered the ruins of the town of Beta Samati. The discoveries included a fourth-century basilica, the earliest physical evidence of a sub-Saharan church. In addition, archaeologists found a stone pendant with Ge'ez inscriptions and cross designs (found just outside the basilica wall), cross-shaped tokens, a gold and carnelian ring, coins, a millefiori glass bead, and fragments of African red slip.
Relevant Textbook Chapter(s):
2,
3,
4
Repository and Online Resources:
• Read about the discovery and excavation of Beta Samati.
Image Credits:
Michael J. Harrower et al.
