Growing up, the way we know some ancient historical Churches is their buildings; their architectural designs are epic, and you would wonder how they were when they were initially built. They often use style building materials indigenous to the African culture, which is considered more sustainable because it’s sourced locally. Most of these church organisations and structures are expressions of the people’s cultural heritage. These structures were often called African vernacular architecture.
In this blog post, I will share with you the most iconic historical Churches and examine why these ancient landmarks are worth your visit.
Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches, Ethiopia
Rock-Hewn Lalibela churches Ethiopia are part of the best churches to visit in Ethiopia. These Rock-Hewn churches Africa are listed among the UNESCO African churches heritage. Lalibela churches Ethiopia are 12th-century churches that boasts historical landmarks.
Below are some interesting highlights about the Rock-Hewn churches Africa.
- Lalibela rock-hewn churches are carved entirely from rock.
- Lalibela rock-hewn churches are still active for worship.
- Lalibela rock-hewn churches are a collection of 11 medieval monolithic churches.
- Lalibela rock-hewn churches are major places of pilgrimage and devotion for Ethiopians.
- Lalibela churches were built within the space of 24 years, according to Wikipedia.
- Lalibela churches identify as the second Jerusalem.
Sherry Allchin, a biblical counsellor and teacher on Quora, in her contribution to the discussion on why churches were made out of rock in Ethiopia, said they made the rock mountains into churches, explaining how the church was carefully carved out with windows and doors and decorated. She described the architecture as one that is worth a visit to Lalibela.
In a tweet describing Lalibela, Papango, an X user, described the place as incredible. He mentioned that pictures can’t do the scale of everything, including the inside of the churches.
Lalibela is absolutely incredible. Pictures can't really convey the scale of everything and the inside of the churches. And the way it comes together when you walk the pilgrimage trail through it.
— Pāpango (@papango) January 15, 2021The image below shows an aerial view of a Rock-Hewn Lalibela church in Ethiopia.
Image Source: Pixabay
St. George’s Cathedral, Cape Town, South Africa
St George’s Cathedral Capetown is one of the African churches with a history in the anti-apartheid struggle. It is recognised as the “People’s Cathedral”. According to Wikipedia, Desmond Tutu was the first black Archbishop of South Africa who led the anti-apartheid movement. If you love church history, it is one of the historic churches to visit in South Africa.
Below are reasons why St George’s Cathedral stands out.
- St George’s Cathedral played a vital role in the liberation of South Africans.
- It is one of the anti-apartheid religious sites where activists usually converge.
- St George’s Cathedral served as the prayer service location for Nelson Mandela when he was hospitalised for a recurring lung infection.
- It is home to one of the few labyrinths in South Africa.
- It was built out of sandstone from Table Mountain.
Note: Discover more historical stories about Africa when you tune in to Travelradio.live.
Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire
The Guinness World Records list the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace as the largest church in Africa. It is among the most often explored religious sites in West Africa. The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Côte d’Ivoire, is also a significant historical monument in Catholic Churches in Africa.
Below are features that make the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Ivory Coast stand out.
- Basilica Our Lady of Peace has a brilliant and impressive architecture.
- It features world-class stained glass artwork and towering domes.
- It has an area of 30,000 square metres (320,000 sq ft) and is 158 metres (518 ft) tall.
- Basilica Our Lady of Peace was inspired by the Basilica of St. Peter in Vatican City, Italy.
- Its structure can accommodate about 18,000 worshippers.
- Basilica, our Lady of Peace Ivory Coast, offers tourist-worthy sights.
Nomadic Maajoa, an X user who is also a travel curator, shared her experience while at the Basilica of our Lady of Peace Ivory Coast, which was a trip that was worth the experience.
Took a 3hr bus ride from Abidjan to Yamoussoukro this morning to experience this beauty 😍
📍Basilica Of Our Lady Of Peace
The biggest church in the world they say. Entrance fee is 2000CFA and you get a personal guide.
Totally worth the trip! ❤️ pic.twitter.com/TVwNQM6p2X
— Maajoa (@NomadicMaajoa) February 23, 2023The image below shows the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Côte d’Ivoire with its grand central dome.
Image Source: Canva
Check out this piece to discover underrated destinations in Africa.
The Church of Saint Anthony, Egypt
The Church of Saint Anthony Egypt is one of the oldest churches in Africa. It is also one of Africa’s oldest and most recognised Christian monasteries. This church was founded in the 4th century in the Eastern Desert. It symbolises the religious heritage of Egypt.
The image belows shows a secluded monastery, depicting the Church of Saint Anthony Egypt monastery.
Image Source: Pixabay
Below are reasons the Church of Saint Anthony Egypt is worth a trip.
- Church of Saint Anthony is home to ancient manuscripts.
- It is located around the Red Sea.
- It still runs an active monastic community life.
- It houses about 120 monks dedicated to a life of prayer and devotion.
- Church of Saint Anthony is a secluded setting for sacred tours and pilgrimage.
Final Thoughts
Religious tourism in Africa is a great way to connect with history. It embodies Africa’s faith and resilience. These historical African churches blend faith, culture and ancient beauties. They are ideal for religious-based travel destinations.
These historical African churches are beyond religious sites; they offer exciting tourism experiences for religious lovers and adventurers.
Which of these destinations would you visit first? If you visited at least one, what was your experience?
Listen to Travelradio.live for excellent travel tips.
Also read: 10 Essential Flight Etiquettes That You Need to Know
