10 Things to Do in Keren Cathedral (Keren), Eritrea
Keren Cathedral, located in Keren, Eritrea, is a stunningly beautiful and historically significant building. It is the largest and oldest church in the country, and it has a fascinating history that dates back to the 15th century. The cathedral is a must-see for anyone visiting the area, and here are 10 things to do in Keren Cathedral.
1. Explore the Cathedral’s Exterior
The exterior of the Keren Cathedral is impressive and awe-inspiring. The building is made of sandstone blocks and is decorated with carvings and sculptures. It has a grand, imposing façade, and its bell tower can be seen from miles around.
2. Visit the Cathedral’s Interior
The interior of the Keren Cathedral is just as impressive as the exterior. Inside, you can marvel at the beautiful frescoes, altarpieces, and mosaics, all of which were crafted in the 15th century. There are also several chapels, including the Chapel of the Virgin Mary and the Chapel of St. George.
3. Learn About the Cathedral’s History
The Keren Cathedral has a long and fascinating history. It was originally built in the 15th century by the Portuguese, who used it as a mission church. It was later used by the French and the Italians, and it was even used as a mosque during the Ottoman period.
4. Admire the Cathedral’s Artwork
The Keren Cathedral is home to some stunning artwork. The walls are adorned with frescoes and mosaics, and there are several altarpieces. The most notable of these is the altarpiece of St. George, which was crafted in the 15th century.
5. Attend a Service
The Keren Cathedral is still a functioning church, and services are held every Sunday. Attending a service is a great way to experience the local culture and learn more about the history of the church.
6. Visit the Crypt
The Keren Cathedral has a crypt, which is located beneath the main building. The crypt is home to several tombs, including those of the first bishop of Keren and the first priest of the cathedral.
7. Take a Tour of the Cathedral
There are several guided tours of the Keren Cathedral. These tours will take you around the building and teach you about its history and architecture.
8. Explore the Surrounding Area
The Keren Cathedral is located in the city of Keren, which is a great place to explore. There are several museums, galleries, and cultural sites in the area, as well as plenty of restaurants and shops.
9. Attend a Concert
The Keren Cathedral is home to a concert hall, which hosts regular concerts. These concerts feature both local and international musicians, and they are a great way to experience the local culture.
10. Visit the Museum
The Keren Cathedral has a museum, which is located in the crypt. The museum is home to several artifacts, including several ancient manuscripts, as well as a collection of religious artwork.
Keren Cathedral is an incredible and historically significant building, and it is well worth visiting. Whether you’re interested in exploring its exterior, admiring its artwork, or learning about its history, there are plenty of things to do in Keren Cathedral.