Debre Damo: Ethiops Ancient Sacred Monastery
1 min read•Canaan Hotel Team•February 15, 2026
Perched on a flat-topped mountain, this 6th-century monastery is accessible only by rope.
Just 45 km from Adigrat, Debre Damo is one of Ethiopia oldest and most revered monasteries. Founded in the 6th century by Abuna Aregawi, it sits atop a 3,000-meter plateau with sheer cliffs on all sides.
The only way up is by climbing a 15-meter rope – an experience that has remained unchanged for centuries. While the monastery itself is open only to men, the surrounding landscape and the journey are awe-inspiring for all visitors.