Gheralta: A Land of Towering Cliffs and Ancient Churches

Gheralta is a striking mountain range characterized by towering rock formations, rising 450 meters high and stretching over three times that in width. Running east to west across central-northern Tigray, Gheralta captivates adventurers with its dramatic pinnacles, sheer vertical cliffs, flat-topped ambas, and rugged traverses over broken slopes.

The region is home to at least a dozen remarkable rock-hewn churches, many of which remain active, serving monks and priests. Some house extraordinary religious art dating back to the 14th century. Scattered throughout the landscape are abandoned chapels and hermit cells, remnants of a long spiritual tradition.

At the far eastern end of the range, three Axumite rock-cut tombs have been repurposed as Christian churches. One of these has been incorporated into a newly built, classic North Ethiopian-style church, preserving its ancient substructure.

Just outside the small town of Hawzien, an Italian investor has recently opened a beautifully designed lodge, offering comfortable accommodations with breathtaking views of the entire Gheralta range. This makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s historical and natural wonders.