Mariam Zion (Hidar Zion)
Hidar Zion is one of the most prominent annual religious festivals in Axum, northern Ethiopia, celebrated on November 30th (Hidar 21 in the Ethiopian calendar). It is dedicated to Saint Mary of Axum Zion, the custodian church of the original Ark of the Covenant.
Thousands of Orthodox Christian pilgrims gather in Axum to attend this profound celebration. Pilgrims dress in spotless white traditional garments, lighting candles and participating in overnight prayer vigils outside the historic church compound.
The high point of Hidar Zion is the solemn procession where the ceremonial tabot is carried on the shoulders of senior priests, accompanied by rhythmic drumming, liturgical chants (Yaredic music), and liturgical dances.