Lalibela is one of the holiest cities of Ethiopia (Africa) equivalent of
Petra in Jordan. Surrounded on all sides by rugged and forbidding mountains to
the north of the modern province of Wollo, Lalibela gives the impression that
you have landed in a kingdom centuries past. Lalibela is also home to an airport
(ICAO code HALL, IATA HLL), a large market, two schools and a hospital.
Ethiopian wolves can be seen near the town.
Lalibela stands on soft red volcanic rock and was originally known as Roha. It was later renamed Lalibela when King Lalibela was credited with building the rock-hewn churches there in the twelfth century. Lalibela is now regarded as one of the greatest Ethiopian architectural wonders and is ranked the eighth most incredible historical site in the world by UNESCO. Aksum and Lalibela have in common architectural and stone works, which illustrate Ethiopian civilization at great length.
Good time to visit: September to November are the best months to visit.
Location: In the former province of Wollo, in northern Ethiopia.
The rural town of Lalibela is known around the world for its monolithic churches which play an important part in the history of rock-cut architecture. The 11 medieval, monolithic churches of this 13th century 'New Jerusalem' are Ethiopia's top attraction and they inspire awe, regardless of whether you are in religion or religious architecture.
Though the dating of the churches is not well established, most are thought to have been built during the reign of Lalibela, namely during the 12th and 13th centuries. Perched at 1630 m, the monastic settlement of Lalibela is a desolate, isolated place, a center of pilgrimage to its many annual visitors. Located in the heart of Ethiopia near a traditional village with circular dwellings, the churches of Lalibela are cut straight from bedrock so their roofs are at a ground level.
All 11 churches were built within a century and are divided into two groups - Northern and Eastern group of churches. Close examination is required to appreciate the full extent of this achievement as some lie almost completely hidden in deep trenches, while others stand in open quarries caves. A complex labyrinth of tunnels and narrow passage ways with offset crypts, grottoes and galleries connects them all. Its a damp and silent subterranean world apart from the echoing sounds of the chanting faithful, that needs to be experienced to be fully understood. Once the thriving and populous capital city of a medieval dynasty, the passing centuries have reduced Lalibela to a village. The churches have been kept alive by generations of the priest who guard their treasures of ornamented crosses, illuminated Bibles and illustrated manuscripts. From the road below, it remains nearly invisible against the horizon dominated by the 4200 meter peak of Mount Abuna Joseph.
