High in Ethiopia’s Northern Highlands, the rock-hewn churches of Tigray stand as breathtaking sanctuaries of faith carved into sandstone cliffs. For centuries, some 120 rock-hewn churches and the paintings and artifacts preserved within their walls were protected by their remote locations. However, during the 2020-2022 war in Tigray, some churches were targeted, and the use of heavy weapons resulted in vibrations that caused cracks in the stone. Through evocative imagery and intimate testimonies, this documentary explores the endurance of these remarkable sites of devotion, as local priests reflect on the spiritual and cultural legacies at risk. This film is part of Africa’s Cultural Landmarks, produced by The Metropolitan Museum of Art in collaboration with the World Monuments Fund. This documentary series, directed by Sosena Solomo,n examines some of Africa’s notable cultural landscapes and their continued relevance to local communities. This initiative introduces new content that reframes The Met’s new Arts of Africa galleries.
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Rock-Hewn Churches of Tigray, Ethiopia
The Met
