10 things to do in Debre Birhan Selassie Church Gonder Ethiopia
Debre Birhan Selassie Church in Gonder, Ethiopia is a beautiful and historic church that is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Built in the 17th century, the church is known for its stunning architecture, ornate frescoes, and its religious significance. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Debre Birhan Selassie Church.
1. Admire the Exquisite Architecture: The church is a masterwork of Ethiopian architecture, featuring a unique blend of the traditional Gondar style and the more modern Baroque style. It has a tall, octagonal tower with a conical roof, and the walls are covered with intricate frescoes. The church also features a unique dome-shaped ceiling and a large central courtyard.
2. View the Frescoes: The walls of the church are covered in beautiful frescoes, depicting scenes from the Bible and Ethiopian history. The frescoes were painted by the renowned artist, Afewerk Tekle, and are considered to be some of the finest examples of Ethiopian art.
3. Learn About the Church’s History: The church was built in 1665 by Emperor Fasilides, and is named after his son, Debre Berhan Selassie. It was originally used as a royal chapel and was the site of the coronation of Emperor Yohannes IV in 1872.
4. Attend a Service: The church is still used for religious services, and visitors are welcome to attend. The services are a great way to experience the local culture and to observe the beautiful singing and chanting of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.
5. Explore the Grounds: The church is surrounded by a large courtyard, where visitors can explore the surrounding gardens and get a better view of the church’s architecture.
6. Visit the Museum: The church has a museum that features artifacts from the church’s history, including ancient manuscripts, religious artifacts, and paintings.
7. Take a Photo: The church is a popular spot for photographers, and visitors can take stunning photos of the church’s architecture and frescoes.
8. Visit Nearby Attractions: The church is located near several other popular attractions, including Fasil Ghebbi, the Royal Enclosure of Gonder, and the Simien Mountains National Park.
9. Shop for Souvenirs: Visitors can purchase souvenirs from the church’s gift shop, including traditional Ethiopian clothing, jewelry, and art.
10. Enjoy a Meal: After exploring the church, visitors can enjoy a meal at one of the nearby restaurants, which serve traditional Ethiopian dishes.
Visiting Debre Birhan Selassie Church is a great way to experience the culture and history of Ethiopia. Whether you’re admiring the architecture, viewing the frescoes, or attending a service, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.