Perched precariously atop a sheer-sided amba (flat-topped mountain), 86km northeast of Axum, is one of Ethiopia's most important religious sites. Debre Damo is thought to dated back to Axumite times and the 6th century region of king Gebre Meskel.

It boasts what's likely the oldest standing church in the country. The monastery was found by Abuna Aregawi, one of the legendary nine saints, with a little help from a heavenly snake