Tigray's Cliffside Churches & Ancient Axum
This unique tour combines two of Ethiopia's most remarkable historical and religious sites: the breathtaking rock-hewn churches of Tigray and the ancient ruins of Axum, Ethiopia's first capital city and home to the legendary Ark of the Covenant.
The Marvel of Abune Yemata Guh
Perched at 2,580 meters (8,460 ft) on a sheer cliff face in the Gheralta Mountains, the 6th-century church of Abune Yemata Guh is one of Ethiopia's most spectacular religious sites. The church can only be accessed by a daring ascent involving narrow ledges and vertical rock faces, making the journey as memorable as the destination itself.
Inside, the church contains some of the best-preserved early Christian frescoes in Ethiopia, dating back to the 9th century. The vibrant colors have survived remarkably well due to the dry climate and the church's protected location.
Other Remarkable Tigray Churches
The Tigray region contains over 120 rock-hewn churches, many dating back to the Aksumite period. Our tour includes visits to several of the most significant:
- Maryam Korkor - Known for its impressive architectural details and dome
- Abraha Atsbeha - One of the largest churches with beautiful frescoes
- Debre Damo - Accessible only by rope climb, one of Ethiopia's oldest monasteries
Ancient Axum Highlights
As part of this comprehensive tour, we include visits to Axum's most significant historical and religious sites:
Stelae Park
The famous obelisks of Axum, some dating back 1700 years, stand as memorials to ancient kings. The largest standing obelisk rises 24 meters high, while the fallen one would have been 33 meters - the largest single stone monument humans have ever attempted to erect.
Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion
The most sacred church in Ethiopia, believed to house the original Ark of the Covenant. The current church dates to the 17th century, built on the site of a 4th-century church said to be Ethiopia's first.
Tomb of Kaleb and Gebre Meskel
These two massive stone structures are believed to be the tombs of 6th-century Axumite kings. The precision of their construction rivals that of the Egyptian pyramids.
The Ark of the Covenant
According to Ethiopian tradition, the original Ark was brought to Axum by Menelik I, son of King Solomon and the Queen of Sheba. It's guarded in a chapel near the Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion.
Queen of Sheba's Palace
The ruins of a massive palace believed to have belonged to the legendary Queen of Sheba, with its impressive drainage system and throne platform still visible.
Axum Museum
Houses an impressive collection of artifacts from Axum's golden age, including ancient coins, inscriptions, and the Ezana Stone which documents Ethiopia's conversion to Christianity.
Gallery
Tour Packages
Tigray & Axum Explorer
This comprehensive tour includes visits to Abune Yemata, Maryam Korkor, and Debre Damo in Tigray, plus all major sites in Axum including the Stelae Park and Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion.
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Tigray Cliff Churches Adventure
Focusing on the most spectacular cliff churches including Abune Yemata, Abraha Atsbeha, and Maryam Korkor. Includes hiking, climbing, and cultural interactions with local communities.
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Axum Historical Tour
Deep dive into Axum's history with visits to all major sites including the Stelae Park, Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion, Queen of Sheba's Palace, and the Archaeological Museum.
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Contact Information
Ready to experience Ethiopia's ancient wonders? Contact us to book your tour or ask any questions.