Gonder
An extensive compound, near Gondar's center contains the massive ruins of a group of imposing castles like some African Camelot. The battlements and towers evoke images of gracious knights on horseback and of ceremonies laden with spectacle and honor.
The oldest and most impressive of Gondar's many imperial structures is the palace of Emperor Fasilidas, said to have been built by an Indian architect. There are also numerous other fascinating historical buildings and relics to be seen in the area.
Debre Berhan Selassie, in particular, represents a masterpiece of the Gondarene School of art. This finest Gondarene church was built during the reign of Emperor Iyasu ( 1682-1706), and was never destroyed. It is said that when the Dervishes tried to burn it in 1881, they were attacked and dispersed by bees. The church is rectangular, similar to those of ancient Axumite architecture. The inside walls of the front room are covered with paintings on cloth, glued to the surface. The ceiling is built with thick beams and it decorated with winged angel heads looking down. The wall paintings depict scenes from the life of Christ, Mary, the Saints, the Trinity, and others. The unique murals are awesome and have stood the test of time for centuries.
Flanked by twin mountain streams at an altitude of more than 2,300 meters, Gondar commands spectacular views over farmlands to the gleaming waters of Lake Tana. The city retains an atmosphere of antique charm mingled with an impression of mystery and violence.
Gondar was once a vigorous and vital center of religious learning and art. For more than two hundred years skilled instruction in painting, music, dance, poetry and many other disciplines thrived. Fasilidas and his successors saw their elegant capital as a phoenix and so patronized the arts.
The treasures of Gondar include the stone bathhouse of Emperor Fasiladas and the ruined Palace of Kusquam.
The castles display a richness in architecture that reveals the influence of Arabia as well as Axumite traditions, and are said to be the largest concentration of such structures in Africa.
The Goha Hotel stands at the crest of a hill about 1 kilometer from the town centre, with a commanding view of Gondar and its enchanting and mysterious castles. The views are wonderful and make the Goha one of the best options in town. Recently renovated bedrooms are comfortable and clean. There is a decent restaurant serving a mix of local and international food, a bar and terrace with lovely views and a shuttle that takes guest into and out of town.
www.gohahotel.com
Mayleko lodge is one of the best properties in Gondar located a short distance from the airport and ancient royal enclosures. It is a place where Ethiopian tradition runs true. Situated in pristine landscape, the lodge offers 21 bungalows, a gourmet restaurant, a swimming pool and a golf driving range.
www.maylekolodge.com
With a grand presence on the foot hill of mount Genet, this hotel can be considered as one of the biggest in the city of Gondar. With a total of 70 rooms, the room preference extends from the suite rooms with ample sitting area, to a standard rooms, and Twin bedrooms. The hotel offers best view to the city of Gondar. The European and traditional restaurants offer good variety of meals for tourists.
http://www.gonderlandmark.com
Located at the outskirt of Gondar, Florida hotel offers spacious and comfortable 60 Guest rooms, Restaurant, Bar, Wi-Fi internet, Conference hall. It is one of the new hotels in Gondar.
www.floridainternationalhotel.com
Situated just across the street from the Fasildes castles, Taye Belay hotel is one of the hotels in Gondar frequented by tourists. It has 79 rooms with a selection of suite, regular, double and twin beds.
http://www.tayebelayhotel.com
AG Hotel is a centrally located Hotel in Gondar, a city rich with history and royalty. Just 10 minute walk to Fasiledes Castle & Debre Birhan Sillassie Church, two of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
www.aghotelgonder.com
