Mekele, also spelled MakalleMekele, Eth.Bamsetown, northern
Ethiopia. Situated 6,778 feet (2,066 metres) above sea level and
west of the salt mines of the Danakil Plain, Mekele is the
principal centre of Ethiopia’s inland salt trade. Newer
industries include the production of incense and resin. An
airport serves the town. Nearby are the ruins of prehistoric
settlements, and the greater surrounding region is home to many
rock-hewn churches that are thought to date back several
centuries. Pop. (2007 prelim.) 215,546.