What is the main monastery on the Lake Tana?

monastery of Daga Estefanos
Set on a hill around 100m above the lake, a short trek up a winding path brings you to one of the most sacred monasteries, the monastery of Daga Estefanos.

Why is Lake Tana important?

Lake Tana is the largest national freshwater body, accounting for 50% of the total inland waters of the country, and is the source of the Abbay of Blue Nile River. The area is internationally renowned as Important Bird Area and the high abundances qualify areas around the lake as Ramsar site.

How Lake Tana is formed?

Lake Tana was formed by volcanic activity, blocking the course of inflowing rivers in the early Pleistocene epoch, about 5 million years ago. The lake was originally much larger than it is today. Seven large permanent rivers feed the lake as well as 40 small seasonal rivers.

What type of lake is Tana?

Lake Tana, largest lake of Ethiopia, in a depression of the northwest plateau, 6,000 feet (1,800 metres) above sea level. It forms the main reservoir for the Blue Nile (Abbay) River, which drains its southern extremity near Bahir Dar.

How many monasteries are in Lake Tana?

There are over 30 in total, but you only need see a couple to capture the magic of the place. Ura Kidane Merit is one of the most famous and if you can handle the souvenir stalls on the 15 minute walk up to the monastery the artwork and light in the church is superb.

What is the source of Lake Tana?

Gilgel Abay River
Gumara RiverLesser Abay RiverMagech River
Lake Tana/Inflow source

Why is Lake Tana holy water?

Because it is shallow, the lake drains quietly northward. Unsurprisingly, as mother of the Nile, Lake Tana is also a holy place with numerous churches to visit on its islands and shoreline, as well as monasteries along the river that attract huge crowds on festival days.

Where is Lake Tana in Ethiopia?

Amhara
Lake Tana is the largest single lake in Ethiopia and forms the main reservoir for the Blue Nile. The Lake is located at an altitude of 1788 metres on the north central plateau of Amhara.

How big is the Lake Tana in Ethiopia?

It is about 95 kilometers long and spans across an area of 3,500 square kilometers. Although Ethiopia is landlocked, the presence of this lake makes up for it. A boat ride across Lake Tana is a must for anybody who decides to visit Ethiopia.

Where are the ancient monasteries in Lake Tana?

Located on the southern side of Lake Tana, the Zege Peninsula is home to some ancient but ravishing monasteries. Also, the region has a thick lush forest you can take long walks in, and a hill that you climb up for some spectacular views. Finding itself at the tip of the peninsula, this monastery is the oldest on Zege.

How many islands are there in Lake Tana?

Lake Tana is dotted with islands, monasteries, churches, fishermen, and spectacular views. Leaving this place without venturing out on a boat ride would almost make your trip abstruse. Lake Tana is home to about 37 islands that are storehouses of cultural and historical significance. Some of the popular islands are:

How long does it take to get to Lake Tana?

It takes about 45 minutes to reach and has a spectacular range of paintings. Unfortunately, it is only open to men. Furthermore, you can also visit the Azuwa Maryam church and the Bete Selassie and Tekla Haimanot monastery at Zege. The scattered islands and peninsulas of Lake Tana collectively house more than twenty monastic churches.