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Ethiopia

Mifsas Bahri

Highland site with substantial church ruins.

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

About

Mifsas Bahri is an archaeological site located in the highlands of the Tigray region, Ethiopia. Situated near the present-day Lake Aksumite, this site is notable for the ruins of a substantial church. The church, constructed using bright red dressed ashlar, is believed to date back to the 6th or 7th century CE. Its architecture, characterized by its orientation and relief sculpture, suggests ecclesiastical functions. The building fell into disuse by the 15th century CE, according to radiocarbon dating. Local tradition recounts its destruction in the 1540s by the forces of Aḥmad ibn Ibrahīm al-Ġazī, although some radiocarbon evidence hints at an even earlier construction date. This site offers valuable insights into the architectural and religious practices of the region during the Late Classical to Late Post-Classical periods.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Mifsas Bahri

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Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Religious and Ritual Structures

Churches

Artistic and Decorative Features

Reliefs

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Ethiopia
Source
Wikipedia