Documentation practices of hypogea churches of Ethiopia: the case of Lay Gayint Woreda, South Gondar

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to document the hypogea churches in Lay Gayint Woreda, South Gondar, to provide information for future tourism development practices and serve as insurance against loss of value due to unmanaged deteriorative factors.

Design/methodology/approach

The study followed a descriptive research design with qualitative research approach. Data were collected through field observations, interviews and written sources examination.

Findings

The study explored the lesser-known hypogea churches, which have significant tourist attraction values, including environmental, historical and architectural significance. However, the use of these potential cultural resources for tourism development is not yet attempted, and their conservation status is found to be critical. This documentation work is significant both for the sake of future tourism development plans and as insurance against looming cultural losses.

Research limitations/implications

This study did not record the ancient treasures of the churches because of the current political instabilities that hindered the access of data. However, it has implication for the need of an extensive documentation activity to trace the cultural resources in the remote areas of the country for future tourism development and conservation practices.

Originality/value

This paper documented the remote hypogea churches not only for the purpose of future tourism development plan but also as an insurance of their values against unmanaged destructive factors.

Citation

Ebabey, T. and Italemahu, T.Z. (2024), "Documentation practices of hypogea churches of Ethiopia: the case of Lay Gayint Woreda, South Gondar", Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/JCHMSD-07-2023-0118