Situated in the Eritrean highlands, Dekebat Monastery is one of the most important religious sites in the country. Built in the early 12th century, it is the oldest monastery in Eritrea and a major pilgrimage destination for Orthodox Christians. The monastery is located on a hilltop and overlooks the city of Dekebat. It features a number of ancient churches, chapels, and monastic buildings, as well as a large courtyard. Here are the top 10 things to do in Dekebat Monastery, Eritrea.
1. Explore the Ancient Churches: Dekebat Monastery is home to a number of ancient churches, including the Church of St. George, the Church of the Holy Trinity, and the Church of St. Mark. Each church is beautifully decorated with intricate frescoes, mosaics, and sculptures. Visitors can explore the churches and learn about the history of the monastery.
2. Visit the Monastic Buildings: Dekebat Monastery is also home to a number of monastic buildings, including the refectory, the library, and the bell tower. Visitors can explore the buildings and learn about the monastic lifestyle of the monks who lived here.
3. Attend a Service: Dekebat Monastery is a major pilgrimage destination for Orthodox Christians. Visitors can attend a service and experience the beauty of the Orthodox liturgy.
4. Take a Hike: Dekebat Monastery is located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can take a hike around the monastery and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
5. Visit the Museum: Dekebat Monastery is home to a museum that displays a number of artifacts from the monastery’s history. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the history of the monastery.
6. Enjoy the Courtyard: The courtyard of Dekebat Monastery is a peaceful and tranquil place. Visitors can enjoy the shade of the trees and the peaceful atmosphere of the monastery.
7. Explore the Gardens: Dekebat Monastery has a number of beautiful gardens, including a rose garden and a herb garden. Visitors can explore the gardens and enjoy the beauty of the flowers and plants.
8. Visit the Cemetery: Dekebat Monastery is home to a cemetery where visitors can pay their respects to the monks who lived and died here.
9. Shop for Souvenirs: The monastery has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and religious items.
10. Attend a Festival: Dekebat Monastery holds a number of festivals throughout the year. Visitors can attend a festival and enjoy traditional music, dancing, and food.
Dekebat Monastery is a beautiful and historic site that is well worth visiting. Visitors can explore the ancient churches, monastic buildings, and gardens, attend a service, take a hike, visit the museum and cemetery, shop for souvenirs, and attend a festival. Whether you’re a religious pilgrim or a curious traveler, Dekebat Monastery is sure to offer something for everyone.