Ankober

Ankober is a remote town at an altitude of approximately 3,000 metres with a rich, historic past. The settlement is situated on the edge of a plateau with the steep slopes behind the town dropping 2,000 metres down into the Rift Valley below. In the Middle Ages many caravans passed through here bringing goods from the Afar people from the populated lowlands to the Christian highlands. Ankober (which literally translates to ‘Toll Gate of Anko’) was the main transit and customs station of the trade route.

In the 18^th Century the King of Shoa, Amha Iyesus, built his residence in Ankober. The city then became and remained the capital of the Shoa dominion until 1878, when King Menelik II moved his court to the Entoto Mountains – where Addis Ababa was established.

Interesting to note is the location of the old royal residence in Ankober. For strategic purposes, the residence was located about 2 kilometres behind Aknober on the top of an exposed, steep hill, behind which the land drops off steeply. Three churches from the 19^th century stand at the food of the hill and are still in use today. However, the only evidence remaining of the residence itself are some remains of the wall. The views and scenery is fantastic, and the panoramic views extend all around the mountaintop. To the northeast lie rugged mountain peaks and to the east the country disappears abruptly, down into the misty depths of the Rift Valley. One can also sense the heat of the lowlands and the steppes.

In the place where the old residence once stood, now stands the Ankober Lodge, architecturally inspired by the design of the former residence. Here is also the starting point for many guided tours of varying lengths, which lead through the beautiful surrounding landscape, including a visit to a local farmers hut if desired. Longer hikes with mules are also available. Or you can simply remain at the lodge and relax. From Addis Ababa two-day trips are recommended. (See: OUR TOURS, Short Trips)

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