According to the kibre- negest (Book of Kings) written in 14th century , it was the capital of the legendary queen of Sheba in the 10th century BC, it does seem certain that a high civilization was established here in Axum. Axum is renowned for its cathedral of St. Mary of Zion, where legend has it, the original Arc of covenant is housed. Axum is also famous for its 7 mysterious monolithic stelae, hewn from single pieces of solid granite. This site is registered by UNNESCO as world heritage.