10 Things to Do in Debre Markos Monastery, Ethiopia
Debre Markos Monastery, located in the Amhara region of Ethiopia, is an important religious center for the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. The monastery is home to a number of ancient religious artifacts, including the Ark of the Covenant and a number of ancient manuscripts. It is also a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a chance to experience the culture and history of Ethiopia. Here are 10 things to do in Debre Markos Monastery.
1. Explore the Monastery Grounds: Debre Markos Monastery is surrounded by lush, green gardens and is a great place to explore. Take a stroll around the grounds and take in the sights and sounds of the monastery.
2. Visit the Ark of the Covenant: The Ark of the Covenant is a sacred relic of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and is housed in the monastery. It is believed to contain the Ten Commandments and is a must-see for religious pilgrims.
3. Attend a Religious Service: Debre Markos Monastery is home to a number of religious services, including the Ethiopian Orthodox Church’s Sunday Mass. Attend a service to experience the spiritual atmosphere of the monastery.
4. Explore the Ancient Manuscripts: The monastery is home to a number of ancient manuscripts, including the Book of Enoch and the Book of Jubilees. Take a look at the manuscripts to learn more about the history of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.
5. Visit the Church of Mary: The Church of Mary is a small church located within the monastery grounds. It is believed to have been built in the 13th century and is a great place to explore the history of the church.
6. See the Icon of Mary: The Icon of Mary is a large painting of the Virgin Mary and is believed to have been painted in the 16th century. It is a popular attraction for visitors to the monastery.
7. Take a Tour of the Monastery: Debre Markos Monastery offers guided tours of the grounds. Take a tour to learn more about the history and culture of the monastery.
8. Visit the Holy Well: The Holy Well is located near the entrance to the monastery. It is believed to have healing properties and is a popular destination for pilgrims.
9. Attend a Festival: Debre Markos Monastery hosts a number of festivals throughout the year. Attend a festival to experience the traditional music and dance of the region.
10. Shop at the Souvenir Market: The souvenir market at Debre Markos Monastery is a great place to find traditional Ethiopian crafts and souvenirs. Shop around to find the perfect memento of your visit.
Debre Markos Monastery is a great place to experience the culture and history of Ethiopia. With so much to see and do, it is a must-visit destination for any traveler.