An incredible site of the mountain church, Abuna Yemata Guh, is a monolithic church located in the Hawzen woreda of the Tigray Region, Ethiopia. It is situated at a height of 2,580 meters (8,460 ft).
According to local tradition, the church was built in the 5th century by one of the Nine Saints, Abuna Yemata Guh.
The Nine Saints are said to have come to Ethiopia from various regions, including Rome, Constantinople, and Syria, to spread Christianity and establish a monastic tradition.
Majority of the wall paintings in the church displays all the nine saints that is, Abraham, Jacob, Isaac, Mary and Christ, Moses, Paul and Peter including great monks like Abuna Kiros, Abuna Mattewos and Abba Esi as well as counter-crossings of decorations. All these paintings have been well-preserved in their original state due to the dry air and lack of humidity.
To access the church, one must climb a steep cliff with hand and feet holes carved into it. The ascent is considered hazardous and requires both physical strength and mental fortitude.
Abuna Yemata Guh is one of the 35 churches in Ethiopia that is built into a high place, making it a unique and awe-inspiring site to visit.
