15 Questions
Who founded the Zagwe dynasty in 1137?
Mara Takla Haymanot
What is the name of the famous architectural achievement of King Lalibela?
The Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela
What is the material used to build the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela?
Volcanic rock
Who overthrew the Zagwe dynasty in 1270?
The Solomonic dynasty
What is the significance of the Zagwe dynasty's architectural achievements?
They are celebrated and admired today
How long did the Zagwe dynasty rule Ethiopia?
From the 12th to the 13th century
What was the primary basis of the Axum economy?
Trade and commerce
During which period did the Axum kingdom experience significant growth and prosperity?
3rd-6th centuries AD
What was the primary significance of the city of Axum?
It was a major commercial center and hub for trade
What was the main reason for the decline of the Axum kingdom?
Internal conflicts, external pressures, and the rise of Islam
Which of the following was a major export of the Axum kingdom?
Ivory, gold, and spices
What was the significance of the conversion of the Axum kingdom to Christianity?
It had a significant impact on the development of art, architecture, and literature
What was the name of the king who founded the Axum kingdom?
Zoskales
What was the significance of the Axum kingdom's control of the Red Sea trade routes?
It enabled the kingdom to import luxury goods from the Mediterranean
What was the legacy of the Axum kingdom?
It developed Ethiopian Christianity and the Ge'ez script
Study Notes
Overview
- The Zagwe dynasty was a medieval Ethiopian royal house that ruled Ethiopia from the 12th to the 13th century.
- The dynasty was founded by Mara Takla Haymanot in 1137 and lasted until 1270.
Key Rulers
- Mara Takla Haymanot (1137-1172): Founder of the Zagwe dynasty.
- Lalibela (1185-1225): King of the Zagwe dynasty and known for his architectural achievements, including the construction of the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela.
Architectural Achievements
- The Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela: A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous architectural achievements of the Zagwe dynasty.
- The churches were carved out of volcanic rock and feature ornate stone carvings and intricate designs.
Decline and Legacy
- The Zagwe dynasty was overthrown by the Solomonic dynasty in 1270.
- Despite its relatively short reign, the Zagwe dynasty left a lasting legacy in Ethiopian architecture, art, and culture.
- The dynasty's architectural achievements continue to be celebrated and admired today.
Test your knowledge about the Zagwe dynasty, a medieval Ethiopian royal house that ruled from the 12th to the 13th century, its founders, key rulers, and architectural achievements.
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