Eritrea Assab History: A Look at the Long and Varied Past of This Ancient City
Eritrea Assab is a city located on the Red Sea coast in the country of Eritrea. It is the capital of the Debub Region and the largest port in the country. It is known for its long and varied history, which dates back to the ancient kingdom of Aksum. This article will explore the history of Eritrea Assab, from its earliest days to its modern-day status as a major port city.
The earliest known inhabitants of Eritrea Assab were the Aksumites, a Semitic people who settled in the area around the 4th century BC. The Aksumites established a powerful kingdom that dominated the region for centuries. They were renowned for their trading prowess and their advanced engineering skills, which allowed them to construct the impressive stone monuments that still stand today.
In the 6th century, the Aksumites were conquered by the Islamic armies of the Rashidun Caliphate. The city was renamed to Assab and became part of the province of Habash. It remained under Islamic rule until the 19th century, when it was ceded to the Ottoman Empire. During this period, Assab was a major port for the Ottoman Empire, and it became an important center for trade and commerce.
In the late 19th century, the Italians invaded Eritrea and established a colony. Assab was an important port for the Italian colonialists, and they constructed a large naval base in the city. During World War II, the British and the South African forces captured Assab and used it as a base for their operations against the Italians.
After the war, Eritrea was granted independence and Assab became part of the newly formed nation. In the 1980s, the city was a major base for the Eritrean People's Liberation Front (EPLF) during their fight against the Ethiopian government. The city was heavily damaged during the war, but it has since been rebuilt and is now a major port and industrial center.
Today, Assab is an important port city in Eritrea. It is home to a large fishing industry, as well as a significant oil refinery. The city is also a popular tourist destination, as it offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. From its ancient monuments to its modern-day attractions, Assab has something for everyone.