Hidar Tsion in Axum – Sacred Pilgrimage Festival
Place
Hidar Tsion in Axum
Hidar Tsion is one of Ethiopia’s most important Orthodox pilgrimage festivals, celebrated in Axum, the ancient capital of the Aksumite Kingdom.
Hidar Tsion in Axum – Sacred Pilgrimage Festival
Addis Ababa – Axum – Addis Ababa
Pilgrimage, ancient kingdom, St. Mary of Zion, faith, history, and sacred celebration
Hidar Tsion is one of Ethiopia’s most important Orthodox pilgrimage festivals, celebrated in Axum, the ancient capital of the Aksumite Kingdom.
The celebration takes place around the famous Church of St. Mary of Zion, one of Ethiopia’s most sacred religious sites. Thousands of pilgrims travel to Axum to pray, chant, attend church services, and honor the Virgin Mary.
Axum itself adds deep historical power to the experience, with ancient obelisks, royal tombs, archaeological sites, and sacred traditions connected to Ethiopia’s early civilization.
Suggested Itinerary – 3 Days
Day 1 – Flight to Axum & Historical Site Visit
Fly from Addis Ababa to Axum.
Visit the ancient obelisks, royal tombs, archaeological sites, and old city landmarks.
Begin learning about Axum’s spiritual and royal history.
Day 2 – Hidar Tsion Pilgrimage Celebration
Attend the Hidar Tsion festival around St. Mary of Zion Church.
Experience pilgrims, prayers, chanting, white traditional clothing, and sacred religious atmosphere.
Explore the surrounding church area and festival gatherings.
Day 3 – Final Axum Visit & Return
Visit remaining historical sites, local markets, and viewpoints.
Traditional coffee experience before departure.
Fly back to Addis Ababa.
Highlight
A sacred pilgrimage experience in Axum, where Ethiopia’s ancient kingdom and Orthodox faith come together.
