Hidden within the folds of Axum’s ancient
landscape, the Tomb of the Brick Arches offers a fascinating glimpse into the
lives of the Axumite elite. Dating back to the 4th century AD, this burial site
is reached by eighteen stone steps leading to an entrance framed by a
shoe-shaped arch crafted from brick. The tomb’s archaeological significance is
immense, having yielded a treasure trove of artifacts: human remains, pottery,
glass vessels, intricate metalwork, and beautifully carved ivory and bronze
scraps. Among the most intriguing finds is a circular plaque bearing Ethiopic
inscriptions, now displayed in the museum, offering visitors a window into the
rich history and craftsmanship of the Axumite civilization.