Emperor Baeda Maryam: Ethiopia's Patron of the Arts and Relic Hunter

In the late 15th century, Emperor Baeda Maryam ruled Ethiopia during a golden age of artistic and religious flourishing. Unlike his famous father Zara Yaqob, Baeda Maryam was a less austere figure who commissioned exquisite illuminated manuscripts, built churches, and launched relic-hunting expeditions across the realm. This episode explores his reign: his patronage of the Ge'ez manuscript tradition, the construction of the church of Atronsa Maryam, his diplomatic outreach to Europe, and the legend of the True Cross fragment he recovered. We also examine his controversial polygamy and the succession crisis that followed his death, setting the stage for the upheavals of the 16th century. Join us as we uncover the story of a ruler who blended piety, artistry, and ambition. #BaedaMaryam #Ethiopia #Ge'ez #AtronsaMaryam #TrueCross #EthiopianManuscripts #ZaraYaqob #SolomonicDynasty #EthiopianOrthodox #ChurchHistory #15thCentury #RelicHunting #Polygamy #ArtPatronage #EthiopianHistory #EastAfrica #History #FexingoHistory Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo