10 Things to Do in Debre Birhan Selassie Monastery, Debre Birhan, Ethiopia
Debre Birhan Selassie Monastery is one of Ethiopia's most sacred and important religious sites. Located in Debre Birhan, a city in the Amhara region of Ethiopia, the monastery is a major pilgrimage destination for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians. It is also a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a unique insight into the country's religious and cultural heritage. Here are 10 things you can do when visiting Debre Birhan Selassie Monastery:
1. Visit the Church of the Holy Trinity: The Church of the Holy Trinity is the main church of the monastery and is the largest church in Ethiopia. Built in the 17th century, it features stunning frescoes, which depict biblical scenes and important Ethiopian saints. It also houses the tombs of Emperor Menelik II and Empress Taitu.
2. Explore the Courtyard: The courtyard of the monastery is home to a number of interesting monuments, including a large stone cross and a bell tower. It is also a great place to take a stroll and admire the architecture of the monastery.
3. Attend a Service: Debre Birhan Selassie Monastery hosts regular services, which visitors are welcome to attend. The services are conducted in Ge'ez, the liturgical language of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.
4. Learn About the History of the Monastery: The monastery was founded in the 16th century by Emperor Gelawdewos. It was destroyed by the forces of Ahmed Gragn in 1531 but was later rebuilt by Emperor Menelik II.
5. Visit the Library: The monastery houses a library, which contains ancient manuscripts and books written in Ge'ez. It is open to the public and is a great place to learn more about Ethiopian history and culture.
6. Admire the Frescoes: The walls of the monastery are adorned with stunning frescoes, which depict biblical scenes and important Ethiopian saints.
7. See the Iconostasis: The Iconostasis is a wooden structure that separates the sanctuary of the church from the nave. It is decorated with intricate carvings and paintings of biblical scenes.
8. Visit the Tomb of Emperor Menelik II: The tomb of Emperor Menelik II is located in the Church of the Holy Trinity. It is a popular destination for pilgrims, who come to pay their respects to the emperor.
9. Take a Tour: The monastery offers guided tours, which provide visitors with an in-depth look at the history and architecture of the site.
10. Shop for Souvenirs: The monastery has a souvenir shop, where visitors can purchase traditional Ethiopian artifacts and souvenirs.
Debre Birhan Selassie Monastery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about Ethiopia's religious and cultural heritage. From attending services and exploring the courtyard to admiring the frescoes and visiting the tomb of Emperor Menelik II, there are plenty of things to do when visiting Debre Birhan Selassie Monastery.