Gondar was Ethiopia’s capital between 1632 and 1855, and it remains one of the country’s richest areas in terms of history, culture and natural beauty. Gondar is a land of medieval mystery and the center of an important trading empire. The city holds the remains of several well-preserved royal castles, including those in Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure), for which Gondar has been called the “Camelot of Africa”. This UNESCO registered site is an ideal touristic destination that connects almost all of the historic routes in Ethiopia.. From the same period, Fasilades Baths are well worth a visit, and the church of Debre Birham Selassie contains some of the finest religious art in Ethiopia with Incredibly vibrant and evocative images depicting the stories of saints and martyrs. Gondar is also the gateway town to the Simien Mountains National Park and one of the best places to be during the festival of Timkat that takes place every January.