Debre Damo Monastery – An Ancient Ethiopian Monastery
Debre Damo Monastery is an ancient Ethiopian Orthodox Church monastery located in the northern region of Tigray. The monastery is believed to have been founded during the sixth century AD by Abba Aregawi, one of the nine saints of Ethiopia. It is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims, and is renowned for its unique architecture, stunning views, and rich history.
A Brief History of Debre Damo Monastery
The ancient Debre Damo Monastery was founded in the sixth century AD by Abba Aregawi, one of the nine saints of Ethiopia. According to legend, Aregawi was the first to climb the sheer cliff face of the mountain, using only a rope and his bare hands. The monastery was built on the mountaintop as a place of solitude and contemplation for the monks.
In the ninth century, during the reign of Yodit (Gudit), the monastery was destroyed. However, it was rebuilt in the early eleventh century by Emperor Lalibela. Since then, the monastery has been a place of pilgrimage for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians.
The Architecture of Debre Damo Monastery
The architecture of Debre Damo Monastery is unique and impressive. The monastery is made up of several buildings, including a church, a library, and several other structures. The church is built in the traditional Ethiopian style, with pointed arches and wooden columns. The walls are decorated with intricate murals and carvings depicting biblical scenes.
The monastery is also known for its beautiful gardens and terraces, where visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside. There is also a large collection of ancient manuscripts and books in the library, which provide a fascinating insight into Ethiopia’s rich history and culture.
Visiting Debre Damo Monastery
Visiting Debre Damo Monastery is a unique and unforgettable experience. The monastery is only accessible by rope, which is lowered down from the cliffs by a monk. The rope is quite narrow and slippery, so visitors must be sure-footed and agile. Once you make it to the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and an amazing insight into Ethiopia’s rich history and culture.
The monastery is open to the public from 9am to 4pm every day and admission is free. There are also a number of accommodation options in the area, so you can stay overnight and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Conclusion
Debre Damo Monastery is an ancient Ethiopian Orthodox Church monastery located in the northern region of Tigray. It is believed to have been founded in the sixth century AD and is renowned for its unique architecture, stunning views, and rich history. Visiting Debre Damo Monastery is a unique and unforgettable experience and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Ethiopia.