The Zagwe dynasty (ዛጔ መንግሥት) was a medieval Agaw Orthodox Christian

monarchy that ruled the northern parts of Ethiopia and Eritrea. Here are some key
points about this fascinating period:

1. Duration: The Zagwe dynasty reigned from approximately 1137 to 1270 AD.
2. Center of Power: It was centered at Roha (later named Lalibela).
3. Famous King: The Zagwe dynasty is most famous for King Gebre Mesqel Lalibela,
who is credited with constructing the rock-hewn monolithic churches of Lalibela.
4. Name Origin: The name “Zagwe” is thought to derive from the ancient Ge’ez
phrase Ze-Agaw, meaning “of the Agaw,” in reference to the founder of the
dynasty, Mara Tekle Haymanot.
5. Succession: Unlike later Ethiopian rulers, the Zagwe dynasty followed a unique order
of succession, where brothers succeeded brothers as kings, based on Agaw laws of
inheritance.
6. End of the Dynasty: The Zagwe dynasty came to an end when the last Zagwe
King, Za-Ilmaknun, was defeated and killed in battle by the forces of the Amhara
King Yekuno Amlak.