Church of Debra Berhan Selassie

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Jul 21, 2025 - Jul 22, 2025
2 adults, 1 room
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Church of Debra Berhan Selassie: A Historical Gem

Located in Gondar, Ethiopia, the Church of Debra Berhan Selassie is notable for its intricate frescoes and historical significance.

Established in the late 18th century, it was built to commemorate the earlier church from the 1690s, founded by Emperor Iyasu I. The church is famed for its elaborate ceiling of winged cherubs and an extraordinary portrayal of hell, illustrating the deep cultural value it holds in Ethiopian Christianity.

Must-See Highlights

🕊️ **Winged Cherubs**: The ceiling features 135 cherubs, symbolizing divine presence, despite a few succumbing to water damage.

🖼️ **Fresco Madness**: The church's walls are adorned with vibrant paintings, attributed to local artists but not limited to a single creator.

🦁 **The Lion of Judah**: The main entrance gate’s architectural design represents Christ with a lion tail above, emphasizing the church's spiritual symbolism.

Visitors can enjoy this historical site for free, making it ideal for tourists, families, and history enthusiasts alike.

Interesting Facts about Natural History Museum Church of Debra Berhan Selassie

Bees to the Rescue

In the 1880s, a swarm of bees defended the church from marauding forces, preventing its destruction.

Architectural Symbolism

The surrounding wall features 12 rounded towers representing the apostles, while the 13th tower symbolizes Christ.

Photography Restrictions

Flash photography inside the church is prohibited to protect the artworks.

Location

Gondar

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