Friday, April 11, 2014

Gheralta Area - Abreha we Atsbeha Church (Interior)

April 11 - The inside of this 4th century church is remarkably well preserved. Queen Yodit, a hard hearted Muslim ruler burned the exterior in the 10th century, but the interior was spared. The local legend is that shortly after the twin brothers died, there was an attempt to move their bodies to Axum, an important town further north,  When the bodies were touched, they burst into flames without corrupting them. The locals took this as a sign from God, so their mummified bodies are said to be in this church. 

An icon painting of the twin bothers, Abreha and Atsbeha. 

Some of the original 4th century paintings. 

The Virgin Mary and baby Jesus on pillar. This is a very common theme throughout the church. 

Special door with angels guarding the crypt of the twin brothers. Nobody is allowed to see the crypt. 

Paintings depicting several bible stories - the circumcision of Jesus, the be-heading of St. John, etc. 

Archangel Michael on horse. 

St. George on horse slaying a dragon/demon. 

Painting depicting the defeat of Satan. 

View across church. 

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