Adadi Maryam: Ethiopia's Southern Rock-Hewn Wonder
Discover Adadi Maryam, Ethiopia's hidden rock-hewn church, a testament to ancient faith and architectural ingenuity, south of Addis Ababa.
Adadi Maryam, a rock-hewn church dating back to the 12th or 13th century, stands as a unique testament to Ethiopian religious architecture. Unlike the famed churches of Lalibela, Adadi Maryam is the southernmost of its kind, offering visitors a glimpse into ancient craftsmanship and devotion. Carved from solid rock, the church is not fully separated from the surrounding cliff, giving it a semi-monolithic structure.
A brief summary to Adadi Maryam (Rock-Hewn)
- 6GWWJGH2+X2XX, ET
- +251919678533
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions like the Melka Kunture prehistoric site and the Tiya UNESCO World Heritage stelae.
- Visit on Thursdays or Sundays to experience the vibrant cultural market in Adadi town.
- The 21st of each Ethiopian month is Saint Mary's Day, offering a chance to witness a traditional church service.
- Dress modestly when visiting the church; women are advised to cover their hair.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Adadi Maryam from Addis Ababa, take a bus to Butajira from the main bus station. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours and costs 50-100 Ethiopian Birr. From Butajira, hire a local taxi or minibus to Adadi Maryam, about 10 km away. Negotiate the fare beforehand, typically around 200-300 Birr.
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Car
From Addis Ababa, drive southwest on the main road towards Butajira. After passing Melka Kunture, look for signs indicating the turnoff to Adadi Maryam, approximately 12 km west of the main road. Follow the unpaved road for about 2 km to reach the church entrance. Parking is available near the entrance for a small fee, around 20-30 Ethiopian Birr.
Discover more about Adadi Maryam (Rock-Hewn)
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