ETHIOPIA: SACRED TIGRAY

Occupying a high plateau and bordering with Eritrea in the very north of Ethiopia lies the ancient Province of Tigray. It is an area widely considered to be the fulcrum of Ethiopian culture whose towns can be dated to before the birth of Christ.

Distinctively different from the rest of Ethiopia, strongly Orthodox Christian and culturally proud, Tigray is a mountainous and rocky region dotted with ancient churches carved in to sandstone cliffs. Filling these churches are old religious manuscripts and Bilbles safe-guarded by protective Priests.

Its remoteness has meant that the area was almost unknown to the outside world until relatively recently which has protected these religious sanctuaries that have been described as "the greatest of the historical-cultural heritages of the Ethiopian people".

But now Tigray is at a crossroads. Improved infrastructure has led to an opening up of even the remotest towns and villages. Signs of modernity such as internet cafes and cell phones are increasingly being used by younger Tigraians. Yet the Church remains an ancient and powerful institution which protects its ancient customs creating Biblical like scenes.