"Menebeiti: Unveiling the Mysteries of the Queen of Sheba’s Enclosure"

Nestled in the valley below Imba Fekada, Menebeiti (also known as Gulo Makeda or Queen Sheba’s Enclosure) is a site rich in legend and archaeological significance. Tradition holds that this was a resting place of the Ark of the Covenant during its journey to Aksum, further deepening its connection to Ethiopia's ancient heritage.

The heart of the archaeological project here is the church of Enda Tekle Haymanot, which sits within a stone compound featuring Pre-Aksumite pillars and large stone slabs. Excavations have uncovered a remarkable palatial structure, thought to date back to the time of the Queen of Sheba, as well as pottery that spans from the 16th to the 1st century BC.

Though the site offers a quiet atmosphere with limited current display, it is an integral part of a 3–4 km walking loop, easily accessible from the nearby military base. Visitors can explore this site in combination with Imba Fekada’s rock art, delving into the historical layers of the region. With future excavations underway, including the development of a museum in Adigrat and an on-site interpretation center, Menebeiti is poised to offer deeper insights into one of the most fascinating chapters of Ethiopia’s ancient past.