Lalibela Rock-Hewn Churches

Lalibela Rock Churches in the northern Ethiopian town of Lalibela are fascinating for their construction and history, much of which is mired in mystery. The churches were hewn from living rock, chiselled by hand, forming doors, windows, columns, floors, roofs, and other structures, and completed with a system of drainages, trenches, and ceremonial passages. The churches were believed to have been built under King Lalibela, the emperor of Ethiopia, during the 12th and 13th centuries. Another theory attributes the construction of the rock-hewn churches to the Knights Templar.

There are 11 Lalibela churches in all, five to the north of Jordan River, five to the south, and one isolated church. Of them, the Biete Medhane Alem is believed to be the largest monolithic church in the world. Paths and tunnels connect the churches, each of which has a unique design and layout, and is characterized by rock-cut architecture. The interiors feature elaborate carvings, frescoes, and religious artifacts. Visiting all the churches will take a full day. As the churches are an active worship and pilgrimage site, it is advisable to dress respectfully.