Debre Berhan Selassie Church: Gondar's Historical Jewel

Discover the timeless beauty and spiritual heritage of Debre Berhan Selassie Church in Gondar, Ethiopia, a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts alike.

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Debre Berhan Selassie Church

Nestled in the heart of Gondar, Ethiopia, Debre Berhan Selassie Church stands as a testament to the city's rich history and vibrant culture. This iconic church, whose name translates to 'Mountain of the Enlightened Trinity', is renowned for its stunning architecture and exquisite interior murals. Constructed in the late 17th century by Emperor Iyasu I, the church has survived the ravages of time and remains a symbol of Ethiopia's enduring faith and resilience. Visitors to Debre Berhan Selassie Church are often captivated by its ceiling, adorned with rows of angelic faces that seem to gaze down from the heavens. Each angel is unique, representing different expressions and features, making this ceiling one of the most remarkable examples of Ethiopian art. The walls of the church are equally mesmerizing, covered in vivid frescoes that depict biblical scenes, saints, and the Ethiopian Orthodox Church's history. The church's serene courtyard, shaded by ancient trees, offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city outside. Here, you can take a moment to reflect on the spiritual and historical significance of this sacred site. Whether you're an art enthusiast, history buff, or simply a curious traveler, Debre Berhan Selassie Church provides a deeply enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Local tips in Debre Berhan Selassie Church

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Wear respectful clothing when visiting, as it is a place of worship.
Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the church's history and artwork.
Photography is allowed, but be mindful of other visitors and the sanctity of the site.
Combine your visit with a tour of Gondar's other historical sites, such as the Royal Enclosure and Fasilides' Bath.

File:Church of Debra Berhan Selassie - Paintings 05.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Gondar City.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Coptic Church Gondar.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Fasil Ghebbi

Explore Fasil Ghebbi, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Gondar, where history comes alive through stunning architecture and rich Ethiopian culture.

Debre Birhan Selassie Church

Explore the vibrant history and breathtaking art of Debre Birhan Selassie Church in Gondar, a cornerstone of Ethiopia's cultural and religious heritage.

Unmissable attractions to see

Fasilides' Bath - ፋሲለደስ ጥምቀተ ባህር

Discover the historic beauty of Fasilides' Bath in Gondar, a serene escape showcasing Ethiopia's royal heritage and stunning architecture.

Ethiopian High Land Tours

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Ethiopia with Ethiopian Highland Tours, your expert guide to unforgettable adventures in the highlands.

Jan Tekel

Experience tranquility and nature's beauty at Jan Tekel Park in Gondar, a perfect retreat for relaxation and cultural immersion.

Simien mountain tour and travel

Explore the breathtaking Simien Mountains with a local travel agency, offering unforgettable tours and cultural experiences in Ethiopia's stunning landscapes.

Iyasu's Palace

Explore the breathtaking Iyasu's Palace, a historical landmark in Gondar, showcasing Ethiopia's rich royal heritage and stunning architecture.

ሳይመን እና ኢሉ

Discover the tranquil beauty of the Garden of Gondar, a serene oasis of nature and culture in the heart of Ethiopia's historic city.

The Fasil Ghebbi (Amharic: ፋሲል ግቢ)

Discover the architectural marvels of Fasil Ghebbi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Gondar, Ethiopia, rich in history and culture.

Essential places to dine

The Four Sisters Restaurant

Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at The Four Sisters Restaurant in Gondar - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Master Chef Restaurant-bar

Experience the rich flavors of Ethiopia at Master Chef Restaurant-bar in Gondar, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

Tele Cafe

Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Tele Cafe in Gondar - where tradition meets taste in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Zoz Amba

Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Zoz Amba in Gondar—where rich flavors meet warm hospitality.

Mini Fogera

Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Mini Fogera in Gondar - where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.

Rain Restaurant

Discover authentic Ethiopian flavors at Rain Restaurant in Gondar – where every meal is a journey through local culture.

Enibla fast food joint

Discover the delightful blend of quick bites and local flavors at Enibla Fast Food Joint in Gondar.

Bahel

Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Bahel Restaurant in Gondar - a culinary delight showcasing rich flavors and warm hospitality.

KB

Experience authentic Ethiopian flavors at KB in Gondar – where every dish is a celebration of culture and tradition.

Yalewayeker Hotial

Experience authentic Ethiopian flavors at Yalewayeker Hotial in Gondar - a must-visit for food lovers seeking local culinary delights.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Tefe Clothing Shop

Explore Tefe Clothing Shop in Gondar for unique local fashion and contemporary styles that beautifully blend tradition and modernity.

Birhanu Shop

Explore Birhanu Shop in Gondar for unique souvenirs and a taste of authentic Ethiopian craftsmanship, perfect for every traveler.

ANWAR AHMED

Explore the vibrant fashion scene of Gondar at Anwar Ahmed, where traditional designs meet modern elegance in clothing and accessories.

Gondar Gotera

Discover the vibrant flavors of Ethiopia at Gondar Gotera, a local grocery store offering fresh produce and traditional ingredients.

Makiva Gemestones &Minerals

Explore the vibrant world of gemstones and minerals at Makiva in Gondar, a haven for gem enthusiasts and curious travelers.

Brand Suits and Collection

Shop at Brand Suits and Collection in Gondar for exquisite suits and local fashion, blending tradition with modern elegance.

Tsigerda

Discover unique handcrafted souvenirs at Tsigerda, Gondar's charming gift shop that embodies Ethiopian culture and artistry.

AMAN BUTIQUE

Explore AMAN BUTIQUE in Gondar for a blend of traditional and modern men's fashion, showcasing Ethiopia's rich cultural heritage.

Umer Market

Explore Umer Market in Gondar for unique home goods and a taste of Ethiopian culture through local craftsmanship.

ሜጋ መጻሕፍት መደብር (mega bookstore)

Discover diverse Ethiopian literature and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of ሜጋ መጻሕፍት መደብር in Gondar, a must-visit for book lovers.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Decent Pub

Discover the lively ambiance and local flavors at Decent Pub, the perfect spot to unwind and socialize in Gondar.

Bar Balageru

Discover the heart of Gondar at Bar Balageru, where vibrant Ethiopian culture meets a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.

INFINITY BAR & LOUNGE

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Gondar at Infinity Bar & Lounge, where cool music and fine drinks create an unforgettable experience.

Gojo bar & restorant

Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Gojo Bar & Restaurant in Gondar, where tradition meets taste and culture.

Admasu Grocery

Experience the vibrant local culture at Admasu Grocery, a lively bar in Gondar offering authentic Ethiopian flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.

Genfun Pub

Discover the lively ambiance of Genfun Pub in Gondar, where vibrant culture meets refreshing drinks in a welcoming setting.

Cinema di Gondar

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Cinema di Gondar, where local culture meets a lively atmosphere in the heart of CeneGondar.

Affinity bar, and restaurant

Discover the vibrant flavors and culture of Gondar at Affinity Bar and Restaurant, where local cuisine meets a lively atmosphere.

Teddy gerosery

Discover the lively atmosphere of Teddy Gerosery, a bar in Gondar, Ethiopia, where culture and camaraderie meet over refreshing drinks.

Lamberger

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Lamberger, a local bar in Gondar, offering an array of traditional drinks and a taste of Ethiopian culture.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Debre Berhan Selassie Church

Discover Debre Berhan Selassie Church with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- Helloሰላም
  [sälam]
- Goodbyeደስ ይብሉ
  [des yäbelu]
- Yesአዎ
  [awo]
- Noአይ
  [ay]
- Please/You're welcomeእባክዎ/እንዴት
  [ebakäwo/endet]
- Thank youአመሰግናለሁ
  [amäseggnalhu]
- Excuse me/Sorryእባክዎ/የውም
  [ebakäwo/yewum]
- How are you?እንዴት ነህ?
  [endet neh?]
- Fine. And you?ጠንካራን። እኔ ነኝ?
  [tänkaran. ene neg?]
- Do you speak English?እንዴት እናሳል እንብላ?
  [endet anasal enbela?]
- I don't understandአልተክልም
  [altäklm]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseመጽሐፍትን ይሰጣል፡፡ እባክዎ
  [mets'ahäft'enn ysätsal. ebakäwo]
- I don't eat meatእኔ እስከ ለምንም አምጥን አይፈልግም
  [ene isek lämnim amtsen aifelgim]
- Cheers!እንስማማለን!
  [ensämmalän]
- I would like to pay, pleaseእባክዎ፡፡ ክፈትናል
  [ebakäwo. käftänal]
- Help!እየን!
  [eyen]
- Go away!በል!
  [bäl]
- Call the Police!ፖሊስ አንድነት ይደውሉ!
  [polis andenät yädewelu]
- Call a doctor!የጡን አንድነት ይደውሉ!
  [yetun andenät yädewelu]
- I'm lostስምሽ ነበረ፡፡
  [smish näbär]
- I'm illእኔ ልኚ፡፡
  [ene lin]
- I'd like to buy...እባክዎ አድናቂዎች ያልሆኑ፡፡
  [ebakäwo adänak'iwoch yalhun]
- I'm just lookingለምንም እኔ ተደፋሁ፡፡
  [lämnim ene tädafahu]
- How much is it?እባክዎ ብዛት ነው?
  [ebakäwo bazat new?]
- That's too expensiveእስከ በሉ
  [isek belu]
- Can you lower the price?ብዛትን ጥሩኝ አለን?
  [bazat'n t'urun alen?]
- What time is it?ሰዓት ነው?
  [sä'at new?]
- It's one o'clockአንድ ሰዓት ነው
  [and sä'at new]
- Half past (10)ሰም ፈርሽ (ሰሚ)
  [sem fersh (semi)]
- Morningጥዋት
  [tiwat]
- Afternoonከምሽ
  [kemish]
- Eveningማታ
  [mata]
- Yesterdayትናንት
  [tänat]
- Todayዛሬ
  [zare]
- Tomorrowነገ
  [nägä]
- 1አንድ
  [and]
- 2ሁለት
  [hulet]
- 3ሶስት
  [sost]
- 4አራት
  [arat]
- 5አምስት
  [amsost]
- 6ስድስት
  [sidost]
- 7ሰባት
  [sebat]
- 8ስምንት
  [simost]
- 9ዘጠኝ
  [zät'en]
- 10አስር
  [asar]
- Where's a/the...?ወደ እየሱስ ላኩ?
  [wädä eyesus lak'u?]
- What's the address?አድማስ ምን ነው?
  [admas min new?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?ምስለት እንዴት አሳልፈኝ ነበር?
  [mislet endet asalafen naber?]
- When's the next (bus)?የቀን ከንቲንግ ነበረ?
  [yek'en kent'ing näbär?]
- A ticket (to ....)ቲኬት (እንዴት)
  [ticket (endit)]

History of Debre Berhan Selassie Church

Debre Berhan Selassie Church, built in the 17th century, is one of the most important examples of Ethiopian Orthodox architecture in Gondar. The church is known for its unique blend of traditional Ethiopian and Baroque architectural styles. Its construction coincided with the reign of Emperor Fasilides, who founded Gondar as the imperial capital, making it a hub for religious and cultural expression.
The church is famous for its stunning murals that depict biblical scenes, saints, and angels. These artworks are not only significant for their aesthetic value but also for their role in conveying religious narratives and teachings to the largely illiterate population of the time. The vibrant colors and intricate details reflect the rich artistic tradition of Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity.
Debre Berhan Selassie Church has withstood various historical challenges, including the invasion of the Oromo in the 17th century and the occupation by the Italians in the 1930s. Despite these threats, the church remained a focal point for the local community, symbolizing resilience and continuity of faith throughout turbulent periods in Ethiopian history.
Today, Debre Berhan Selassie Church serves not only as a place of worship but also as a cultural landmark that attracts both pilgrims and tourists. Its annual celebrations, particularly during Timkat (Epiphany), draw large crowds, showcasing traditional Ethiopian music, dance, and religious ceremonies, thereby reinforcing its role as a vital part of the cultural landscape of Gondar.
The historical significance of Gondar, including Debre Berhan Selassie Church, led to its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. This recognition has helped to preserve its architectural and cultural heritage, promoting awareness and appreciation of Ethiopia's historical narrative and the importance of Gondar in the larger context of Ethiopian history.

Debre Berhan Selassie Church Essentials

Debre Berhan Selassie Church is located in the heart of Gondar, Ethiopia. From the Gondar Airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a hotel shuttle. The church is approximately 20 kilometers away, and the drive takes about 30 minutes. If you are already in Gondar, local taxis are available, and the church is easily accessible on foot from many nearby neighborhoods.
Debre Berhan Selassie Church is located within a walkable area of Gondar. For local transport, you can use bajaj (three-wheeled taxis) or regular taxis which are affordable. Bicycles can also be rented from local shops for a more leisurely exploration of the area.
Gondar is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to stay vigilant. Areas surrounding the church may have higher foot traffic, which can attract petty theft. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas. Always keep your belongings secure and be cautious of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 or locate the nearest police station. For medical emergencies, there are hospitals and clinics in Gondar, including the Gondar University Hospital. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting the church; avoid shorts and sleeveless tops. Religion: Do respect the religious customs, such as removing shoes before entering the church. Public Transport: Do be polite and give up your seat to the elderly; don't play loud music or disturb others. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a handshake; don't use overly familiar gestures unless invited. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes at nearby restaurants; don't eat in public places near the church, as it might be seen as disrespectful.
To experience Debre Berhan Selassie Church like a local, consider visiting during a service to appreciate the vibrant community aspect. Try to engage with local artisans selling crafts nearby, as they often share stories behind their work. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby castel complex and other historical sites, which can provide a deeper understanding of Gondar’s rich heritage.

Debre Berhan Selassie Church: Gondar's Historical Jewel

Local tips in Debre Berhan Selassie Church