Arc de Berà church in Gondar survived 19th-century Mahdist invasion through legendary bee swarm

Arc de Berà church in Gondar survived 19th-century Mahdist invasion through legendary bee swarm. Arc de Berà is the most famous church in Gondar The church was built to be a new home for the Ark of the Covenant A replica of the ark is kept in the church, not the original

In the 19th century, Mahdist warriors from Sudan invaded Ethiopia and burned every church in Gondar — except Arc de Berà Selassie. Legend says a swarm of bees drove them away. The church also bears artillery marks from WWII. The church is famous for its vibrant ceiling frescoes depicting angels and biblical scenes. History layered on history! 🐝⛪

Key Facts

• Arc de Berà is the most famous church in Gondar
• The church was built to be a new home for the Ark of the Covenant
• A replica of the ark is kept in the church, not the original
• In the 19th century, Mahdist warriors from Sudan invaded Ethiopia
• The Mahdists burned all churches in Gondar except Arc de Berà
• Legend states a swarm of bees drove away the Mahdists attempting to burn the church
• The church contains portraits of saints, Mary, and the royal family
• Artillery shells from the 1941 battle hit the outer wall of the church

Related site: Arc de Berà — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.

Source: Ethiopia: Ancient Land of Mystery, World War and Rediscovery of The Lost Books of Enoch. by The Randall Carlson