Maryam Nazre: Unveiling the Southern Frontier of the Aksumite Empire

A journey 50 km south of Mekelle leads travelers to Maynebri, where a rugged path veers east toward Maryam Nazre, also known as Addi Abuna. This hidden archaeological treasure, nestled along the edge of a fertile river valley, offers an immersive experience into the mysteries of the Aksumite civilization.

A 10 km off-road adventure—best suited for a 4x4 vehicle—ends at a serene trail, where a half-hour walk through the maize, barley, and teff fields reveals an ancient marvel lost in time. At its heart stands a magnificent church, its foundations resting upon Aksumite ruins. Once grander in scale, remnants of towering stone pillars whisper stories of a forgotten architectural masterpiece.

Scattered across the landscape are fragments of red, orange, and black pottery, obsidian tools, and grinding stones—evidence of a thriving, sophisticated society. While Maryam Nazre was long believed to mark the southernmost edge of the Aksumite Empire, recent discoveries suggest the empire’s reach extended even farther, awaiting further exploration.

For travelers eager to unearth history, Maryam Nazre is more than a site—it's an archaeological enigma, offering an unforgettable journey into the heart of Tigrai’s hidden past.