Yeka Mickael Tour

Addis Ababa is surrounded by hills in which ancient dwellings and places of worship are continually being discovered. Either natural caves or buildings hewn from the rock, these remnants of bygone civilizations, offer a challenge . .

Addis Ababa is surrounded by hills in which ancient dwellings and places of worship are continually being discovered. Either natural caves or buildings hewn from the rock, these remnants of bygone civilizations, offer a challenge to the explorer. Yeka Mickael rock church is located on the hill rising behind the British Embassy. It is carved from rock as were the Lalibela churches, and was used during the Italian occupation to harbor the Tabot of St.Michael which was late returned to the new church of Dt. Michale on the Dessoe road below.

A low tunnel leads in to the courtyard and you can then see the still-standing double entrance gate. Although the ceiling has long since fallen in, the remains of windows and other architectural details are discernable. It is possible to approach fairly close to the church in a fourwheel drive vehicle up the track between the British Embassy and new St. Michael’s. but riding or walking is often preferable allow two or three hours for the trip to give yourself time to enjoy the marvelous views over the city and countryside.