Architecture Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church

the church of saint george, monolithic church in lalibela

there many monolithic (rock-hewn) churches in ethiopia, famously eleven churches @ lalibela. besides these, 2 main types of architecture found—one basilican, other native. church of our lady mary of zion @ axum example of basilican design, though basilicas in ruin. these examples show influence of architects who, in 6th century, built basilicas @ sanʻāʼ , elsewhere in arabian peninsula. there 2 forms of native churches: 1 oblong, traditionally found in tigray; other circular, traditionally found in amhara , shewa (though either style may found elsewhere). in both forms, sanctuary square , stands clear in center, , arrangements based on jewish tradition. walls , ceilings adorned frescoes. courtyard, circular or rectangular, surrounds body of church. modern ethiopian churches may incorporate basilican or native styles , use contemporary construction techniques , materials. in rural areas, church , outer court thatched, mud-built walls.