NERGA SELASSIE CHURCH
The island of Deq, 5 km in diameter, is the largest on the lake. It is largely covered by crops and also produces a large amount of honey. Little visited, the place has a little extra soul, and the priest enjoys chatting with visitors while he displays the church treasure. It takes a full day's boat trip to reach the Nerga Selassie Church. The most accomplished example of Lake Tana church architecture and religious art, built in the 18th century, is dedicated to the Trinity. This is the highlight of a visit to the churches of Lake Tana, especially for women, who are forbidden to enter several major monasteries. Nerga Sélassié is one of the most richly decorated churches on Lake Tana, adorned with well-preserved paintings in shimmering colors. Nerga Sélassié is one of the finest examples of Gondaran-style circular churches, with an exterior gallery. The sanctuary was built by Empress Mentewab, wife of the Gondaran dynasty's Negus Bacaffa and regent during the reign of her son Iyassou II (1730-1755). She is depicted at the foot of a Virgin and Child. In the midst of classical iconography depicting the lives of Jesus and Mary, we note the Church's struggle against pagan beliefs, including that of sea monsters, symbolized by a fish carrying a church on its back and pierced by an angel's spear. Note also the ogre cutting out his tongue.
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