Original Church of St. Mary of Zion Aksum in Ethiopia
The Church of St. Mary of Zion is located deep in the highlands of Ethiopia. It has a great religious significance, and it’s a mystery. According to Ethiopian Orthodox belief, the Ark of the Covenant is buried in the church. This biblical artifact is believed to contain the tablets of the Ten Commandments.
The church dates back to 4th century AD and is one of Ethiopia’s most important religious sites, attracting thousands of pilgrims each year. The church, despite its importance, is off-limits for non-Orthodox tourists. Only a few religious officials are allowed to enter the sanctuary. Secrets and mysteries surrounding the Ark of the Covenant and the church have inspired many legends and conspiracy theories, which add to the fascination and allure of this holy place. The Church of St. Mary of Zion, a symbol of the power of religion and ancient civilizations for believers and nonbelievers alike is a testimony to both.