I recently had the opportunity to visit Tigray, in the month of May 2024. This region that has been through a lot and is still finding its way back to peace. Traveling to Tigray during this period was both eye-opening and humbling.
After an early morning flight from Addis Ababa, we landed at Mekele’s Alula Aba Nega Airport around 8:30 AM. We were a group of three, all set to embark on our Tigray adventure with Berhanu Tigray Tours. As we stepped out of the airport, our taxi was already waiting for us, ready to whisk us away.
The first stop? A much-needed breakfast at IQ Café. It was the perfect spot to refuel and soak in the local vibe before we set off to explore the rich history and stunning landscapes that Tigray has to offer.
Though the scars of conflict are still visible, what struck me most was the resilience and strength of the people. Despite everything, there’s a spirit of hope and determination in the air. Life is slowly returning to normal, but the journey to recovery is ongoing.
First off, the landscapes are out of this world. Picture this: dramatic rock formations, ancient churches carved right into the mountains, and views that just go on forever. I mean, you can’t get this kind of scenery anywhere else!
But let me tell you, the best part of the trip wasn’t just the views—it was the toughness of the hike. the 1st place on our itenary was Abraha We Atsbeha Church.
The church is believed to have been constructed during the 4th century, around the time when Christianity was first introduced to Ethiopia. According to local tradition, Abraha and Atsbeha were two Axumite kings who played a pivotal role in the spread of Christianity in the region. It is one of the finest examples of Ethiopian rock-hewn architecture. The church remains an active place of worship and a pilgrimage site for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians. It is especially significant during major religious festivals, such as Meskel (the Feast of the Finding of the True Cross) and Timkat (Epiphany), when the church attracts numerous pilgrims from across the region.
the same day we visited Abuna Abraham Church which is a notable religious site located in Ethiopia. Abuna Abraham Church is one of the lesser-known yet historically significant rock-hewn churches in Tigray, Ethiopia. This church is part of the rich tapestry of monolithic structures that define the region, known for their architectural ingenuity and deep spiritual heritage.
Located in the Gheralta mountains, Abuna Abraham Church is carved directly into a towering cliff, offering both a challenging ascent and a rewarding spiritual experience. The church is named after Abuna Abraham, a revered Ethiopian saint known for his piety and contributions to the Christian monastic tradition in the region.
The interior of Abuna Abraham Church is a blend of simplicity and reverence. The walls are adorned with ancient frescoes depicting biblical scenes, saints, and religious symbols, providing a glimpse into the early Christian art and devotion that flourished in Ethiopia. The church’s atmosphere is one of solitude and contemplation, making it a sacred space for worship and reflection.
Reaching the church requires a trek up steep, rocky paths, adding to the sense of pilgrimage for those who visit. The journey, though physically demanding, is a testament to the enduring faith and determination of the believers who have made this pilgrimage for centuries.
After reaching the hotel we saw beautiful sunset of Mekele. Gheralta Lodge, The place that we went to see the sunset, has been destructed completely in war. This place offers a stunning vantage point for experiencing the sunset. The experience of watching the sunset at Gheralta Lodge is not just a visual delight but also a moment of profound serenity, connecting visitors to the timeless beauty of the Ethiopian highlands.
And just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better, we capped it off with a spectacular sunset over Mekele. We headed to Gheralta Lodge to watch the sun dip below the horizon. Even though the lodge had seen better days, the view was absolutely magical. The sunset was a beautiful, peaceful moment that made us appreciate the timeless charm of Tigray and the unbreakable spirit of its people. 🌅
So there you have it—a whirlwind of joy, adventure, and breathtaking beauty. Tigray, with its amazing landscapes and heartwarming people, was truly a treasure trove of memories I’ll cherish forever. 🌟💫
Catch up soon,
Cheers!