Ancient Ethiopian religious site with 11 churches carved from solid rock in the 12th century. Pilgrims travel to see the cross-shaped Church of Saint George and other sacred structures.
The mountains of northern Ethiopia rise above Lalibela, where Orthodox priests conduct daily services in churches carved 40 meters deep into volcanic rock. You'll find priests reading ancient prayers from goatskin parchments in Biete Medhani Alem, while white-robed pilgrims walk through underground tunnels connecting the medieval churches. In the surrounding mountains, monks still inhabit cliff-side monasteries like Asheton Maryam, continuing religious traditions that date back to the 12th century.
The Rock-Hewn Churches
Medieval craftsmen carved Lalibela's 11 churches downward into solid volcanic rock, creating structures that emerge from the earth. Biete Medhani Alem spans 109 feet long and 77 feet wide, making it the world's largest monolithic church. Biete Giyorgis (Church of Saint George) forms a perfect cross shape and extends 30 meters into the ground. You can walk through underground tunnels and trenches connecting many churches, following paths that pilgrims have used for centuries.
Religious Life and Ceremonies
In Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity, only Aksum ranks higher than Lalibela in religious importance. On January 7th, Ethiopian Christmas brings thousands of white-robed pilgrims to the churches. During Sunday morning services, hundreds of worshippers fill the ancient churches, chanting traditional prayers that echo through the rock-carved chambers.
Mountain Monasteries
Several monasteries dot the highlands around Lalibela. To reach Asheton Maryam monastery, carved into a cliff at 3,150 meters altitude, you'll need to hike for two hours up mountain paths. The climb leads to clear views across the Ethiopian highlands. Inside a mountain cave, you'll find Yemrehana Krestos church, built in the 12th century with distinctive Aksumite architectural elements like alternating wood and stone layers.
Getting Around Lalibela
Ethiopian Airlines flies daily between Addis Ababa and Lalibela's airport, 25 kilometers from town. A guide must accompany you through the churches - they know the complex tunnel system and can explain the historical significance of each structure. Church complex tickets cost $50 and remain valid for five days.
Daily Life and Markets
The Saturday market brings villagers down from the mountains to sell grains, vegetables, and livestock in town. Local artisans sell traditional crafts alongside the farmers. During weekdays, you'll see residents going about their daily routines around the churches and the distinctive two-story Lasta Tukuls - round houses built from local red stone.
