Situated in the far north of the historic circuit, Aksum is Ethiopia's most ancient capital and the holiest city of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. The Ark of the Covenant, one of the most precious relics of the Judeo-Christian tradition is said to be housed in a small church compound, watched over and attended by a priest who has dedicated his life to the Ark. The Obelisk of Aksum was transported between Africa and Europe twice during the last 100 years. The return of the massive and heavy stone slab from Rome was an important milestone in bolstering national pride and celebrating Ethiopia’s history.