-- Log 16b --
 

Book hand written by the priest in the language of Gis




A painting of Mary on the rock face in the men’s only sanctuary, in St Michael’s Church. It is quite believable that this painting was done after the church was carved in the 11th Century.



One of their Apostles in the men’s only sanctuary in the St Michael’s church in Lalibela. Carved into the rock face of the church.

Restoration work has taken place, but the scaffolding holding the roofs detracts from much of the architecture, we understand that money has been set aside by UNESCO and work is due to begin in September, to find a way to protect these buildings without detracting in anyway from the marvel.



During the tours of the Churches we met with an Italian teacher, and it was a pleasure to give him a lift to Weldiya – safe travels Renato – maybe we will see you in Italy!

Desse – Ghion Hotel – N11.07.517 E039.37.903 – 8 271 ft amsl $17.50 pppn (made Birr 100 after negotiation)

Without a doubt this is the most disgusting place we have ever had to camp at. The public bathroom facilities were filthy. The Manager reluctantly agreed to lessen the rate after much negotiation in the name of tourism. Do not stay at Desse rather travel the extra 25 kms to Kembolcha there are two clean, well looked after motels just as you enter the town to choose from.

Our time has now come to bid farewell to Ethiopia. This is a beautiful country with great potential, it is such a pity that the people are so entrenched in the idea of begging. It is with great sadness, that we are of the view that each time a hand goes out to beg, it makes the country poorer.

Next stop Djibouti ….