Axum Tsion: The Timeless Feast of Saint Mary

In the heart of Axum, Ethiopia’s ancient spiritual capital, the Feast of Saint Mary of Axum Tsion unfolds each year on Hidar 21 (November 29/30), weaving together faith, history, and vibrant tradition. This sacred festival, believed to honor Saint Mary and the legendary Ark of the Covenant, offers a profound glimpse into Ethiopia’s deep-rooted Christian heritage.

As dawn breaks, the city awakens to chants of ancient liturgy carried on the crisp morning air. Thousands of pilgrims—clad in white robes—gather around the revered Church of Saint Mary Tsion, believed to house the Ark. The streets glow with candlelit processions, while hymns and prayers echo against Axum’s ancient obelisks.

A unique ritual of humility and devotion sees youth washing and feeding the feet of weary travelers—a powerful symbol of service that connects the present with Ethiopia’s sacred past.

More than a religious celebration, the Feast of Saint Mary Tsion is a living testament to Axum’s legacy as the cradle of African Christianity. It’s an immersive journey into Ethiopia’s soul, where history, spirituality, and cultural pride converge in breathtaking harmony.