Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela

The Rock-Hewn Churches located in Lalibela, Ethiopia is an outstanding work of architecture for early times. The series of churches was built under the order of King Lalibela, who planned to transform the city of Lalibela into a New Jerusalem, as Muslims mainly occupied the old Jerusalem in Israel. A series of monolithic churches were built around 12th and 13th century and until now, the Rock-Hewn Churches still stand firm to continually amaze tourists around the world. It was honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the year 1978.

In total, there are thirteen churches in the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela and these are grouped in four:

Northern Group

– Bete Medhane Alem, wherein the Lalibela Cross can be found.

– Bete Maryam, the church believed to be the oldest among the Rock-Hewn Churches.

– Bête Golgotha

– Selassie Chapel

– Tomb of Adan

Southern Group

– Monastery of Ashetan Maryam

– Yimrehane Kristos

Western Group

– Bete Giyorgis, acclaimed to be the best well-preserved church among the series of churches.

Eastern Group

– Bete Amanuel, believed to be the royal chapel.

– Bete Merkorios,

– Bete Gabriel Rufael

– Bete Abba Libanos

The city of Lalibela is a frequently visited tourist attraction. An airport, a hospital and several markets can be found within the place. While visiting the Rock-Hewn Churches, it is advisable to wear the most comfortable shoes as venturing throughout the churches can be quite tiring. There are many local tour guides and helpers around the place and it is recommendable to appoint one. The local tour guide will help you navigate around the churches; moreover, the helper will take care of your shoes as you enter the church because shoes must be taken off before going in. Inside the churches, different religious items can be found, including the wall paintings, swastikas and crosses. You will absolutely be amazed at how the rocks were cut and curved; so pay a visit at the Rock-Hewn Churches and be dazzled with its amazing beauty!