Herodian Stones at Former Ethiopian Jewish Temple

On one of our trips to Ethiopia, we visited Christian sites like a Sabean (Sheba) Temple that was built in 700 BC; later on it was converted to a Jewish Temple. In around 600 AD, the then Jewish Temple was used as a Christian Church. However, the baptismal pool remains today. Pastor Stan Felder above points out the Herodian style stones. The Portuguese father Francisco Alvares, whose book was written before 1540 mentioned the “large handsome tower, a royal affair, all of well hewn stone” … “belonged to Candace or Kandake”. Candace means Queen in Ethiopia’s history – it is important to note that this temple has Herodian style stones. It is the only building in Ethiopia that we have seen these stones.

We will be traveling again to see a site on a mountain top above Axum, that today is a church, was at one time a temple which is said to also have these unique stones. In Israel, the only places you find the ‘famous’ Herodian masonry is on the retaining walls around the Temple Mount and in Hebron. Could Herod have copied the stones made from a Jewish Temple in Ethiopia? The Queen of Sheba and her son Menelek and the first born of the Priests of the House of David may have transferred the use of the unique stones when they were sent to Ethiopia. We offer Biblical tours of Ethiopia so you can see the hidden treasures of this lovely land for yourself.

Learn more about the trip highlights & itinerary details for our Ethiopia tours, or our Christian tours in general, so you can begin planning your unforgettable experience.

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Living Passages offers a unique Creation tour through South Africa. This tour is great for the family and even includes an African Safari!