Abuna Yemata Guh is a rock church in Tigray, northern Ethiopia. It was built in the 5th century by Father Yemata. The church is 650 feet high on a steep cliff. Some people say the priest built it there to be closer to heaven. Others believe it was for protection from enemies.
The church is famous for its paintings on the ceiling and an old Bible made from goat skin. There are 20 priests who take care of the church. One of them has lived there for 47 years and climbs the cliff every day.
People who want to visit must hike for two hours. The final part is very dangerous. Visitors must walk on a narrow path next to a deep drop. If they make a mistake, they can fall. Before climbing, they must take off their shoes.
Even though it is dangerous, many pilgrims and visitors go there every year. They say it is a beautiful and spiritual experience. Some people feel like they are in heaven when they arrive.
Vocabulary:
• hewn (adj.): cut or shaped from a solid material, like stone.
• perilous (adj.): very dangerous.
• worshipper (noun): a person who prays in a religious place.
• fresco (noun): a painting made on a wall or ceiling.
• steep (adj.): rising or falling sharply.
• ledge (noun): a narrow surface sticking out from a wall or cliff.
• trek (noun): a long and difficult journey on foot.
Source: Great big story