Pilgrimage to Lalibela
Religion, both Christianity and Islam, are an extremely important component of Ethiopian life. Since the line of Ethiopia's Emperors was Christian, the presence of this religion is felt more strongly in many parts of the country. There are many Christian festivals (apparently 150 per year!!!) and pilgrimages are an integral part of some of these holidays.
The major pilgrimages are to the towns of Axum and Lalibela to celebrate Genna (Christmas), Timkat (Epiphany), Easter, and Meskel (the discovery of the true cross). People walk hundreds of miles, often barefoot, sleeping in the open to reach their destination. They are typically dressed in white cotton robes and may be seen walking in masses of hundreds or even thousands. The average Ethiopian makes a pilgrimage three times in his or her lifetime.
Lalibela, Ethiopia
Pilgrimage to Lalibela
Religion, both Christianity and Islam, are an extremely important component of Ethiopian life. Since the line of Ethiopia's Emperors was Christian, the presence of this religion is felt more strongly in many parts of the country. There are many Christian festivals (apparently 150 per year!!!) and pilgrimages are an integral part of some of these holidays.
The major pilgrimages are to the towns of Axum and Lalibela to celebrate Genna (Christmas), Timkat (Epiphany), Easter, and Meskel (the discovery of the true cross). People walk hundreds of miles, often barefoot, sleeping in the open to reach their destination. They are typically dressed in white cotton robes and may be seen walking in masses of hundreds or even thousands. The average Ethiopian makes a pilgrimage three times in his or her lifetime.
Lalibela, Ethiopia