10 Things to Do in Sidist Kilo Monastery, Inda Selassie Ethiopia
Located in the city of Inda Selassie, Sidist Kilo Monastery is one of Ethiopia’s most famous and well-known monasteries. It is a place of great spiritual importance to the country’s Orthodox Christian population and has been a major pilgrimage destination for centuries. The monastery is home to numerous churches, chapels, and other structures, making it a fascinating place to explore and learn about the history and culture of Ethiopia. Here are 10 things to do when visiting Sidist Kilo Monastery.
1. Tour the Monastery Grounds: Sidist Kilo Monastery is a sprawling complex of churches, chapels, and other structures. Visitors can take a guided tour of the grounds to learn about the history and significance of the monastery, as well as to explore the various buildings and courtyards.
2. Visit the Churches: Sidist Kilo Monastery is home to numerous churches, including the main church, St. Mary’s of Zion, which is believed to be the oldest church in Ethiopia. Other churches include St. George’s, St. Michael’s, and St. Stephen’s.
3. Attend a Service: The monastery is a major pilgrimage site, and visitors can attend a service to experience the spiritual atmosphere of the monastery. Services are held in the main church and other smaller churches throughout the complex.
4. Explore the Courtyards: The monastery grounds are filled with courtyards, gardens, and other outdoor spaces. Visitors can explore these areas to get a sense of the monastery’s layout and architecture.
5. Visit the Library: Sidist Kilo Monastery is home to a library that contains a wealth of books, manuscripts, and other artifacts related to Ethiopian history and culture. Visitors can explore the library to learn more about the country’s past.
6. Take a Hike: The monastery grounds are surrounded by beautiful countryside, and visitors can take a hike to explore the area. The monastery is located at the base of Mount Abuna Yosef, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
7. Shop for Souvenirs: There are several shops near the monastery that sell a variety of souvenirs, including traditional Ethiopian clothing, jewelry, and other items.
8. Visit the Museum: Sidist Kilo Monastery is home to a museum that contains artifacts related to the history of the monastery and the Orthodox faith.
9. Attend a Festival: The monastery is home to several annual festivals, including the Timket Festival in January, which celebrates the baptism of Christ, and the Fasika Festival in April, which celebrates the resurrection of Christ.
10. Enjoy a Meal: Sidist Kilo Monastery is home to several restaurants that serve traditional Ethiopian cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a meal at one of these restaurants to sample the local dishes.