The Old St. Mary Church, originally built in the 4th century AD, stands as a testament to Axum’s rich religious history. Destroyed in the 16th century by the forces of Gragn Mohammed during his battle with Emperor Lebne Dingle, the church was later rebuilt in the 17th century by King Fasiledes of Gondar, atop the podium of the original structure. The church houses the first replica of the Ark of the Covenant, and its walls are adorned with ancient stones and intricate paintings, preserving elements of its original Axumite heritage. This site offers visitors a profound connection to the spiritual and architectural legacy of Ethiopia.