Original Church of St. Mary of Zion Aksum, Ethiopia
Deep in the highlands of Ethiopia lies a place of great religious significance and mystery – the Church of St. Mary of Zion. According to Ethiopian Orthodox tradition, the church is the resting place of the Ark of the Covenant, the biblical artifact that is said to have contained the tablets of the Ten Commandments.
The church, which dates back to the 4th century AD, is one of the most important religious sites in Ethiopia, drawing thousands of pilgrims and visitors each year. Despite its significance, the church is strictly off-limits to non-Orthodox visitors, with only a handful of authorized religious officials allowed inside the sanctuary. The secrecy and the mystery surrounding the church and the Ark of the Covenant have fueled numerous legends and conspiracies, adding to the allure and fascination of this holy site. For believers and non-believers alike, the Church of St. Mary of Zion is a testament to the power of faith and the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations.