Aksum was an ancient kingdom located in what is now northern Ethiopia and parts of Eritrea. It thrived from around the 1st to the 7th century CE and was known for its impressive architecture, including towering stelae and the famous Aksum Obelisk. The kingdom was a major trading hub, connecting Africa with Arabia, India, and the Mediterranean. The Aksumite Empire was one of the first to adopt Christianity as the state religion in the 4th century CE, making it a significant center for the faith in Africa. Aksum's economy was based on agriculture, trade, and the production of coins, which facilitated commerce. The decline of Aksum began in the 7th century, influenced by trade route changes and the rise of neighboring powers.