MIKAEL IMBA CHURCH
One of the country's most spectacular churches, it's a must on any itinerary in Tigray. It is monolithic, cut out of the rock on all four sides, and stands on the edge of an amba (Ethiopian plateau) that is not easily accessible. The ascent to the rock-cut church is short, but aided by a ladder. The sanctuary, at an altitude of 2,450 m, offers a majestic view of the surrounding countryside. Immediately one notices with dismay that the original doors have been replaced by vulgar iron panels, all of which have been extensively whitewashed, right down to the beautiful wooden frames.
As the 17 m wide façade suggests, the interior is vast, supported by large 6 m high cruciform pillars, but is not painted. Decoration is limited to a large Greek cross on the ceiling and other geometric motifs. The vast courtyard in front of the church dates back to a period before Lalibela's (it was used to treat infertile women and sick people). Nearby, deep cisterns dug into the rock retain water.
From the top of the plateau, where the monks' huts are located, you can admire the highly developed rural habitat below, with its fortified farmhouses with several main buildings. Visiting the church in the late afternoon allows you to take advantage of the low-angled light on the building's facade, as well as the superb luminosity of the surrounding landscape.
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