An Archaeological Survey on Rock-Hewn Churches of Kǝlǝtä- Awla'elo Wäräda, Tigray Region, Ethiopia.

Abstract

Abstract This study aimed to describe, examine and analyze structural features and identify their similarities and differences among the churches in the Wäräda and to assess current conservation status. Some of the churches had been described in some non archeological literatures. However, they did not have any conservation perspectives yet seems to have been a high demand today and need to preserve the churches. The study is used descriptive and explanatory analysis approach to analyze the data gathered through direct observation and photograph, interview and document review As the rock churches of the Wereda hidden in mountains and hills of the area, this in turn isolated the churches from heritage managers and researchers. Most of the churches are deteriorated due to their exposed to rain fall. Little is done to conserve and research in few of the churches. But, nothing is done to assess the conservation status of the churches and to investigate them collectively. All most all of the churches are rectangular in shape. Internally the churches are beautifully decorated. All of the churches are cave churches except one which is semi-monolithic church. Monolithic church is absent. In addition to the architectural elements, the churches are endowed with tangible and intangible heritages like an old age manuscripts written on parchments and historical liturgical materials etc. They are important in providing diversified experience for tourists. But, these precious heritages are not well preserved and protected due to poor handling and management. The dating issue of the churches of the Wereda is based on oral traditions and written hagiographies. Future researches are expected to provide archaeological and historical evidences. Fast conservation works are needed so as to assure the longer existence of the churches. Unless this is done, some of the churches future existence could be uncertain. There are an old age parchments like Gedils(deeds) of Abune Gebre Meskel and Abune Abraham that needs critical investigation and they should be well preserved. Because, they may support future studies on the rock-hewn churches of the Wereda. Finally, this study indicated the need of further investigations concerning the conservation and preservation works of the churche