Why are Ethiopian crosses different?

Ethiopian crosses are symbols of Christianity in Ethiopia and Eritrea. Their elaborate, stylized design is markedly distinct from the similar European Christian crosses. Ethiopian crosses are almost always made from elaborate latticework, the intertwined lattice represents everlasting life.

What does the Ethiopian cross represent?

In Ethiopian tradition the cross is the sacred matrix that encompasses the life of the world in both its macrocosmic and microcosmic dimensions; and it is the social and cultural nexus through which and with which people interact in order to shape and express personal and communal identities and hopes.

How old is the Ethiopian cross?

The oldest surviving crosses date to the 12th and 13th centuries; they are housed in international museums and in churches and monasteries of the Ethiopia’s Christian highlands, in the northern half of the country. (Christianity arrived in Ethiopia, via Syria, in the 4th century.)

What is an Ethiopian Coptic Cross?

Ethiopian Coptic Crosses are worn by Christians in Ethiopia, and all around the world. They are worn as a sign of faith. The crosses are typically cast using the “lost wax method”, and bring together a variety of historical influences including Egyptian and Celtic design styles.

What does the Greek cross symbolize?

In antiquity, the cross was used as a symbol, not only of religious but also of artistic (ornamental) character. It is also called Tetractys and was considered a holy symbol for Pythagoreans, followers of Pythagoras of Samos; its equal arms symbolized the four main elements of nature; air, fire, water, earth.

What does the cross with three lines mean?

The Russian Orthodox cross differs from the Western cross. The cross usually has three crossbeams, two horizontal and the third one is a bit slanted. The slanted line reminds us of the two thieves on both sides of the cross. One of them to the right of Christ ascended to Heaven, while the other one sank to Hell.

Where Is the True Cross in Ethiopia?

Meskel Square
The Ethiopia True Cross festival is held in Meskel Square (named after the festival) in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. Every year on September 26th, thousands of Ethiopians descend on the space dressed in colourful robes.