Mendefera formerly Adi Ugri, is the capital city of the Debub Region of Eritrea. The name Mendefera derives from the high hill in the center of the city and is a source of pride to Eritreans. It means 'no one dared' and is a reminder of the fierce resistance put up by the local people to the Italian colonialism. Mendefera was an important city in the Aksumite civilisation, but was established as early as the fifth century BC. Numerous buildings have been excavated since 1959, with both crosses and local and Roman coins found. Many areas, including tombs, have yet to be investigated. It is now a bustling market town in a fertile region of Eritrea, and a place where small and large scale factories produce different products. Some villages in the vicinity of Mendefera include Guhtse'a(ጉሕጭዓ), Ksad Da'aro (ክሳድ ዳዓሮ), and Adi Bana (አዲ ባና). Coordinates: 14°53′14″N 38°48′55″E Country Flag of Eritrea.svg Eritrea Region Debub District Mendefera Elevation 1,972 m (6,470 ft) Population (2012) • City 25,332 • Metro 64,000