Debre Birhan Selassie Church
A short way out of town, it seems more like a fortress than a church at first glance. This is because the local churches were once vulnerable to attacks by the Sudanese. There are twelve towers guarding this church, each representing one of the twelve apostles. The church itself was built at the end of the 17th century. It is worth a visit to see its amazing ceiling with intricately painted angels. There are also other religious images on the walls. Churches like this were once quite common in the area, but this is the only church to survive the Sudanese attacks, making it even more of a treasure.
Gondar Castle, dubbed the Ethiopian Camelot, is not a single castle, but instead is the name given to the entire complex of castles and palaces in the area. Once you pay 50 Birr, which includes a guide, you can explore all of the buildings that make up the castle.
Fasilides Castle
Built in 1640 as the home of King Fasilides.
Iyasu Palace
This was the home of Iyasu I, the son of Yohannes I. An earthquake and bombings by the British destroyed its once ornate and lavish interior, but the structure itself remains mostly intact and is the largest in the area.
Mentwabs Palace
Fasilides Bath
Separate from the castle, it once served as the bath for King Fasilides. Today it is used as a baptismal during Timket.
gorgora
Gorgora is a beautiful small town on the northern shore of Lake Tana about 70 km from Gondar. It has some interesting relics from its brief time as Ethiopia's capital, and the lack of tourists adds to their charm. It is also good for birdwatching. There is an early morning bus from Gondar to Gorgora 20 Birr and occasional minibuses.
Church of Debre Sina
The inside of this 17th century, thatched-roof church is breathtaking, with every wall adorned with biblical paintings.Monasteries
There are a number of monasteries on the northern part of Lake Tana. Boat hire is best arranged by visiting the Gorgora Port Hotel.