The East African country of Ethiopia has ancient origins — indeed, the recent discovery of the 3.18-million-year-old "Lucy" suggests the area of Ethiopia may have been the very cradle of humanity. The pharaonic Egyptians believed that some of their gods came from Ethiopia, which they called "the land of Punt."

In the later centuries before Christ, Ethiopia was home to the powerful Axumite Empire, which traded with Egypt and cities across the Mediterranean. Ethiopia's impressive granite steles date from this period.

Ethiopia converted to Christianity in the 4th century, about the same time as the Roman Empire. But for centuries, the development of Ethiopian Christianity remained almost entirely separate from the rest of the Christian world. Over the years, Coptic Orthodox, Syrian and Jewish influences combined with local traditions to produce a unique brand of Christianity.

19th-century missionaries "discovered" Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity and were amazed by its distinctive interpretation of the faith. Today's visitors to Ethiopia are still fascinated by the colorful art, intriguing traditions, deep religious fervor, and, especially, the remarkable rock-cut churches of Ethiopia. And the Lost Ark of the Covenant is here, too.