Asheton Maryam

Asheton Maryam

I went with Misgan to Asheton Maryam, a monastery situated at an altitude of 3,200m. It is a church carved out of a cleft in the cliff face. It is around 7km up from Lalibela centre so I hired a bajaji to drive us most of the way. The road was really rough. I got an 'African massage' out of the ride but its not a good massage.

Back of the bajaji. Dont't hit the donkey

Bajaji

The bajaji could only take us part way and then we had to walk/climb the rest of the way. At over 3000m above sea level, even the fittest person who is not used to the altitude will struggle. I was huffing and puffing all the way up. But it was worth it. The panoramic views were amazing.

The church is still an active church. It holds mass every Sunday. Thats devotion!

Priest poses with crosses

After we continued climbing up further still. Lots of loose rocks made it tough going but wow again when we got to the top. At the top, there was yet another active church. I mean, you really are devoted if you're willing to basically rock climb to Mass!

Amazing views in which pictures just dont do it justice

At the top I was met by the guardians of the church who decided to follow me around?? I mean, I dont mind the company but....

Photo with the guardians of the church. The man is holding onto me, as behind us is a VERY BIG vertical drop!!

Misgan and I strike a pose

The climb back down was tough. Not for those who are afraid of heights or have bad knees!

Woman hangs her washing up. Look at the view from her house!!

On the way back we stopped to see a guy ploughing a field with his oxen. I, being one who wants to try everything went running through the field asking this poor farmer if I could have ago. (Dumb tourists!) I got to plough and whip the oxen. I'll re-phrase that : the oxen ploughed and whipped me. I couldnt make the oxen go straight and the hoe ploughed way off line. Yep, Im not cut out for farming.

And the farmer makes it look so easy! 

Receipt into the monastery