Blaine Mamo Named Debre Barhan’s Cultural Tourism Ambassador

Artist Blaine Mamo was appointed as the ambassador of the culture and tourism of Debre Birhan. Cultural tourism is a type of tourism that involves traveling to a destination to experience the local culture. This can include visiting historical sites, attending cultural events, or experiencing the local way of life. Cultural tourism is a growing trend as travelers are looking for more than just a beach vacation. They want to immerse themselves in the local culture and learn about the history and traditions of a place.
As a cultural tourism ambassador, it is my job to promote my destination and its culture to potential travelers. I work with travel companies and tour operators to develop cultural tourism products that will appeal to travelers. I also work with the local community to ensure that they are welcoming and accommodating to visitors. My ultimate goal is to create a positive and memorable experience for travelers that will encourage them to come back and visit again. Debre Birhan Selassie Church, meaning ‘Trinity and Mountain of Light’ is the most famous place of worship in Gondar.
On approach, twelve rounded stone towers – representing the 12 apostles – stand stoically guarding the church, as they have done for centuries. The 13th tower, the tallest of the bunch, represents the Lion of Judah. Eagle-eyed visitors can see an imprint of the Lion on the top half of the tower. Originally built in the 17th century by Emperor Eyasu II, the present structure was redeveloped during the 1880s following a raid by marauding Sudanese Dervishes and a lightning strike that reduced the original building to rubble. Originally painted for those unable to read, every inch of the church walls is covered in vivid depictions of biblical verses. With the help of a guide, the church provides a stunning visual synopsis of important biblical stories. Along the circular cornice near the top of the walls, 135 cherubs sit idly gazing down, across the vast cavernous church, greeting weary pilgrims and curious tourists alike.