Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela
★ 4.8🇪🇹 LalibelaSuggested visit 3-4 hoursBest season October to March, the dry season, for the best conditions
World HeritageReligious siteHistoric site
Eleven churches chiselled top-down from solid volcanic rock in the 12th century, often called Africa's Jerusalem.
Overview
All eleven churches at Lalibela were carved downward from single blocks of volcanic tuff and are linked by tunnels, trenches and passages. Bete Giyorgis is a perfect cross sunk about 12 metres deep. The churches remain in active use, with white-robed worshippers gathering at dawn, and the site joined the World Heritage List in 1978.
History
Commissioned by King Lalibela of the Zagwe dynasty in the 12th and 13th centuries as an alternative holy land for those unable to reach Jerusalem.
Highlights
- •The cross-shaped Bete Giyorgis
- •A church complex linked by tunnels
- •Dawn prayers with white-robed worshippers
- •Architecture carved from single blocks of rock
Practical tips
- •Shoes must be removed — bring a cloth bag to carry them
- •Early morning and religious festivals are the most atmospheric
Practical information
- Best time
- October-March
- Tickets
- About USD 50 for adults, covering all churches
- Opening hours
- 6:00-17:30
- Local food
- Injera, lentil stew
- Getting around
- A one-hour flight from Addis Ababa to Lalibela airport, then a 20-minute drive.
- Visa
- A visa is required and an e-visa is available; allow about a month.
Traveller reviews
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