Churches of Lalibela
In a mountainous region of Lasta Roha, in northern Ethiopia, 11 magnificent churches were carved out of solid rock in the 13th century by King Lalibela. These extraordinary churches are named after the king who built them and are famously known as the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela. Revered as the “Second Jerusalem,” Lalibela is the holiest spiritual center in Ethiopia and a sacred place of pilgrimage, prayer, and devotion for Ethiopian Christians.
The Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela are among the greatest wonders of the world. No words can fully describe their beauty, mystery, and spiritual significance.
Types of Rock-Cut Churches in Lalibela
There are two main types of rock-cut churches in Lalibela: monolithic and semi-monolithic.
A monolithic church is a standalone rock-cut church completely separated from the surrounding rock. A semi-monolithic church is carved directly into the mountainside stone but remains partly attached to the main rock.
Where to Find the Churches of Lalibela
The churches are not all located in one place. They are divided into three main groups.
The Northern Group
- Bet Medhane Alem
- Bet Maryam
- Golgotha
- Debre Sina (Mika’el)
- Selassie Chapel
The Southern Group
- Bet Emanuel
- Bet Mercurios
- Bet Abba Libanos
- Bete Lehem
- Bet Gabriel-Rufa’el
The Western Group or Solitary Church
Bet Gyorgis, also known as the House of St. George, which stands alone separated from the other churches.
Bete Medhanialem The bigest Chucrh
Bete Mariam The most Beloved Church
Bete Mikael and Gologotha church Lalibela The most Sacred
Bete Gabriel Rufael Church Lalibela -The Fortress
Bete Giorgis -or St. George The Iconic
Bete Amanuel- The Most beautiful
Bete Aba Libanos – St. Lalibela Memorial
Bete Merkorios- The Secular Place
the other two churches of Lalibela are Bete Denagill and Bete Meskel