Axum Tsion St. Mary: A Sacred Journey Through Time
Explore the spiritual and historical wonders of Axum Tsion St. Mary, a key site in Ethiopia's Orthodox Christian heritage and a UNESCO World Heritage location.
A brief summary to Axum Tsion St. Mary
- 4PJ9+5RH, Aksum, ET
- +251911235044
Axum Tsion St. Mary stands as a monumental testament to Ethiopia's deep-rooted Orthodox Christian faith and its historical significance. Located in the ancient city of Axum, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this church is often regarded as one of the most important religious establishments in the country. Visitors to Axum Tsion are greeted by stunning architecture that reflects the intricate artistry of Ethiopian craftsmanship. The church is adorned with beautiful frescoes and religious icons, providing insight into the rich spiritual life of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. The history of Axum Tsion is intertwined with the legends of the Ark of the Covenant, which is believed to be housed within its walls. This sacred narrative adds a layer of intrigue for tourists, who come seeking both spiritual enlightenment and a connection to ancient history. As you wander through the church, you will discover not only the grandeur of its design but also the serene atmosphere that envelops the space, inviting contemplation and reflection. The surrounding area of Axum is equally captivating, with nearby archaeological sites and monuments that speak to the grandeur of the Aksumite Empire. The ancient obelisks, royal tombs, and archaeological remains create a rich tapestry of history that enhances the experience of visiting Axum Tsion. Whether you are interested in the spiritual aspects, the architectural beauty, or the historical significance, Axum Tsion St. Mary offers a profound journey into the heart of Ethiopian culture and heritage.
Local tips
- Dress modestly, as this is a sacred place of worship.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the church's history and significance.
- Take time to explore the surrounding archaeological sites for a fuller historical context.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from the center of Axum, head northeast on Main Street (also known as Aksum Street). Continue straight for about 1 kilometer until you reach the intersection with the road leading to the Stelae Field. Turn left and walk for another 500 meters. You will see signs pointing towards Axum Tsion St. Mary. After a short walk, you will arrive at the church located at coordinates 14.1304281, 38.7196024.
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Walking
From the Obelisk of Axum, walk south along the path that leads away from the obelisk. After about 300 meters, you will reach a small fork in the path. Take the right path which leads to the historic area. Continue straight for about 700 meters, following the signs to Axum Tsion St. Mary, and you will find the church on your right.
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Walking
If you are coming from the Aksum Hotel, exit the hotel and head east towards the main road. Once you reach the main road, turn right and walk for about 600 meters. Look for the sign indicating the direction to Axum Tsion St. Mary and follow it, walking straight for another 400 meters until you reach the church.
Attractions Nearby to Axum Tsion St. Mary
- Photo Diary Aksum
- መቓብር ንጉስን ቤተሰቡን | The tomb of Mausoleum
- ኣኽሱም ሓውልት | ሓወልቲ ኣኽሱም ቑፅሪ-1 | Akhsum Obelisk No-1
- ንግስቲ ሳባ ማይ ሹም Queen of Saba’s Bath, Mai Shum
- Queen of Sheba's Bath
- Aksum Old Quarter
- Ta'akha Myryam Place
- Ezana Stone
- TOMB OF KING BAZEN
- Addi Guatiya cruciform tombs
- Holly Land of Aksum | ምድረ ፅዮን ከተማ ኣኽሱም ኣጋግዘ ዝተለዓለ ፎቶ
- ቤተ መንግስቲ ንግስቲ ሳባ | Dungur Palace (Queen of Sheba Palace)
- May ako outdoor park ማይዓኮ መናፈሻ
- Kaleb tomb
- King Kaleb Palace
Landmarks nearby to Axum Tsion St. Mary
- Aksum
- ቤተ ክርስትያን እንዳ ኣርባዕተ እንስሳ / Arabtu Ensessa Church
- ቤተክርስቲያን እንዳየሱስ | Jesus Church
- ጥንታዊ እንዳ ፬ እንስሳ ቤተ ክርስትያን |The Ancient Church of Arbaetu Enssa
- Kahsay Beyene, Axum, Tigray
- Nyala Hotel Axum
- Abba Pentalewon
- Atranos Fantasy Hotel and Spa
- ጎቦዱራ ምስለ ኣንበሳ Lioness of GobeDura
- Rahwa Middle School
- Adi Quala Bus Station
- Adi Quala Hospital
- Eyamo ኢያሞ
- Adi Hihi
- Debre Damo