Debre libanos Orthodox Church Travel Guide: Top Sights in Ethiopia,

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Debre libanos Orthodox Church- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Religious Beliefs; Ethiopia; 5 Reviews

Suggested Duration: 2 hours

Debre Libanos Orthodox Church in Ethiopia's Oromia Region is a historic monastic complex founded in 1284 by Saint Tekle Haymanot—who reportedly prayed standing on one leg in the nearby cave for nearly 29 years—where he was later reinterred near the church he inspired. Constructed in 1961 by Emperor Haile Selassie atop Tekle Haymanot's tomb, the modern church impresses with its stained‑glass windows crafted by famed Ethiopian artists and houses relics including a fragment believed to be of the True Cross. Perched on a cliff terrace overlooking the Jemma (Gur) River gorge—a tributary of the Blue Nile—visitors can explore the surrounding wooded streams, a spring‑fed cave with reputedly holy water, and the nearby "Portuguese" stone bridge built in traditional style in the late 19th century, often accompanied by sightings of endemic Gelada baboons and regional birdlife.

Operators offering tours in Ethiopia

Attractions in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa

Lalibela

4.6

Simien

Lake Tana

4.2

Danakil

Omo Valley

Aksum

Bahir Dar

Reviews of Debre libanos Orthodox Church

Peter Burns

4
Reviewed: 2025-04-14

An important monastery for Ethiopian orthodox Christians. Excellent local guide who could explain so many things both in the church and the adjacent museum. The local guide was a fluent English speaker. The stained windows in the church are attractive works of art telling much history
Habib

4
Reviewed: 2024-06-23

It's a holy and historical monastery of orthodox back to many centuries. You will be received and welcomed by a lovely priest guide who speaks English very well and takes in a beautiful and informative history journey. Also, he will take you after to the museum next door. It is worth visiting only if you have much time in Ethiopia or you're not orthodox and don't regret it if you didn't do so. Also, if you have options, go on a real trip like Safari or Cultural to see authentic Ethiopia.
Veronica Brown

5
Reviewed: 2023-01-31

The most amazing and spiritual guide does the tour here. I was so moved by this tour. I absolutely recommend this wonderful monastery to learn more about Ethiopia and Orthodox Christianity.
Birhanu Mesele

5
Reviewed: 2022-03-03

The history of the monastery is great. The landscape is stunning. Highly recommended to visit during the rainy season.
Nathan Gentry

5
Reviewed: 2018-07-22

It's a windy 2.5 hour road trip from Addis, but the views at the Portuguese Bridge were absolutely stunning. I'd highly recommend going during rainy season if you can! You may or may not have a guy with a handheld receipt printer come up to you and charge you 45 ETB per person, but the views are certainly worth the price of admission. If you're looking for a tour to get here from Addis, check out Tours by Locals.