Lalibela is the name of the township which King Lalibela, later canonized, ruled in the 12th century. At his command, eleven monolithic churches were hewn out of living rock. The churches are unique because they are not carved into rock but were freed from it entirely. A large area was chosen for the construction, trenches cut around it and the remaining solid block of rock then cut inside. The churches, many of them connected from tunnels, stand on either side of a river which the villagers of Lalibela call Jordan.
Other Popular Destinations in Ethiopia
Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa, one of Ethiopia's 15 administrative regions, is the administrative, trade and cultural center of Ethiopia.
Bahir Dar
A small town located on the shores of Lake Tana (Ethiopia's largest). Visit the ancient monestaries, the beautiful Tissisiat Falls (30km) and the place where the 'Blue Nile' creates smoking waters.
