Stelae of Aksum
Type:
Stelae
Date:
As late as the fourth century
Location or Findspot (Modern-Day Country):
Ethiopia
Medium:
Stone
Dimensions:
Up to 25 meters high
Description:
The stelae of Aksum were likely carved and erected as early as 5000 BCE and as late as the fourth century, which is when the ruler of the Aksumite Empire, Ezana (r. 320s–ca. 360), embraced Christianity. The stelae may have marked underground burial chambers and many were placed by the hundreds in so-called stelae fields. Their ornament sometimes includes false doors and windows, motifs that later inspired the rock-cut churches of Lalibela.
Relevant Textbook Chapter(s):
Introduction,
2,
9
Repository and Online Resources:
• Visit the Zamani Project's website for 3D models, photos, and maps of the stelae fields of Aksum.
Image Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
