Debre Birhan Selassie Church: A Gondarine Masterpiece

Discover Ethiopia's artistic soul in Debre Birhan Selassie Church, where vibrant murals and celestial angels await.

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Debre Birhan Silase Church | ደብረ ብርሃን ቅድስት ስላሴ ቤተክርስቲያን

The Debre Birhan Selassie Church in Debre Birhan, Ethiopia, is a captivating Orthodox church famed for its unique art and history. Its unassuming exterior belies an interior adorned with vivid murals, biblical scenes, and a ceiling covered in cherubic angels, making it a must-see destination.

A brief summary to Debre Birhan Silase Church | ደብረ ብርሃን ቅድስት ስላሴ ቤተክርስቲያን

MGHM+R2W, Debre Birhan, ET

Local tips

Dress respectfully when visiting; shoulders and knees should be covered.
A small donation to the church is expected if a priest provides a tour.
Take your time to explore the interior; discoveries await around every corner.
Be prepared to remove your shoes before entering the church.

Getting There

Walking

From most central locations in Debre Birhan, the church is accessible by walking. Head east, and the church is located at MGHM+R2W. The walk is generally easy, though the town has some hills.
Public Transport

Local taxis (bajaj) and city buses are available to reach the church from various points in Debre Birhan. Buses are an economical option, while bajaj offer a more direct route. Bus fares are minimal, costing only a few Birr.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Debre Birhan. A short taxi ride from the city center to Debre Birhan Selassie Church will typically cost around 50-100 Ethiopian Birr. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Debre Birhan Silase Church | ደብረ ብርሃን ቅድስት ስላሴ ቤተክርስቲያን

Debre Birhan Selassie, meaning 'Trinity and Mountain of Light', stands as a beacon of Ethiopian Orthodox art and history in Debre Birhan. While seemingly modest from the outside, the church's interior explodes with color and intricate detail, offering visitors an immersive experience into Ethiopian religious art. Originally built in the 17th century by Emperor Eyasu II, the church has faced its share of adversity. The current structure was redeveloped in the 1880s, following damage from Sudanese Dervishes and a lightning strike. Legend states that during the sacking of Gondar in 1888, the church was miraculously spared from destruction when a swarm of bees and Archangel Michael with a flaming sword, appeared, deterring the invaders. Inside, every inch of the church is covered in vivid depictions of biblical verses and saints. The most famous feature is the ceiling adorned with the faces of 135 cherubic angels, each gazing down upon visitors. The walls showcase scenes from the Bible, figures of saints, and the Holy Trinity. A depiction of hell, created by 17th-century artist Haile Meskel, is another notable feature.

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