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
