Rock-Hewn Churches, Lalibela in Ethiopia

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1978
Size of heritage:

Coordinates:
Longitude: 39,040°
Latitude: 12,029°

Summary

The 11 medieval monolithic cave churches of this 13th-century 'New Jerusalem' are situated in a mountainous region in the heart of Ethiopia near a traditional village with circular-shaped dwellings. Lalibela is a high place of Ethiopian Christianity, still today a place of pilmigrage and devotion.

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Rock-Hewn Churches, Lalibela: A Testament to Ethiopian Christianity

The Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela, located in the Amhara Region of Ethiopia, are a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as a testament to the rich history and enduring faith of Ethiopian Christianity. Carved out of solid rock in the 12th century, these churches are not only architectural marvels but also hold immense religious and cultural significance.

History

The story of Lalibela begins in the 12th century when King Lalibela of the Zagwe dynasty sought to create a "New Jerusalem" in Ethiopia. Inspired by his pilgrimage to Jerusalem, he envisioned a holy city that would rival the spiritual significance of the original. Over a period of several decades, skilled craftsmen and artisans meticulously carved these churches out of the volcanic tuff rock, resulting in a complex of eleven monolithic structures.

Legend has it that angels assisted in the construction of these churches, working during the night to complete the intricate carvings. This belief, combined with the extraordinary craftsmanship, has given rise to the popular notion that these churches were not built by human hands alone.

Architectural Marvels

The Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela showcase a unique blend of architectural styles, combining elements of Byzantine, Aksumite, and indigenous Ethiopian design. Each church is carved into the ground, with the roofs at ground level, creating an otherworldly appearance. The interiors are adorned with beautiful frescoes, religious paintings, and ancient manuscripts, providing a glimpse into the rich religious traditions of Ethiopia.

Among the most famous churches in Lalibela are the Church of St. George, known for its distinctive cross-shaped design, and the Church of St. Mary, which houses the renowned Lalibela Cross. This cross, believed to possess miraculous powers, is a revered symbol of Ethiopian Christianity.

Current State

The Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela continue to be active places of worship and pilgrimage for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians. The annual Timkat festival, celebrating the baptism of Jesus, attracts thousands of pilgrims who gather to witness the religious processions and ceremonies held within these sacred sites.

However, the preservation of these ancient churches is not without its challenges. The porous nature of the volcanic rock makes them susceptible to erosion and weathering. Additionally, the influx of tourists and the associated infrastructure development pose a threat to the fragile ecosystem surrounding the churches.

Recognizing the importance of safeguarding this unique heritage, the Ethiopian government, in collaboration with UNESCO, has implemented conservation measures to protect and preserve the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela. These efforts include the construction of protective shelters, monitoring of visitor numbers, and the training of local communities in sustainable tourism practices.

The Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela stand as a testament to the enduring faith and architectural ingenuity of Ethiopian Christianity. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, they continue to inspire awe and reverence, attracting visitors from around the world who seek to witness the remarkable fusion of spirituality and craftsmanship that defines this extraordinary cultural treasure.

Videos from the area

Lalibela,Beta Giyorgis 3d avi

Published: February 11, 2014
Length: 24:43 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: Dosio Andrea STUDIO

3D graphic processing of the church The Church of St. George (Amharic: Bete Giyorgis) is one of eleven monolithic churches in Lalibela, a city in the Amhara Region of Ethiopia. Carved from...

Templo esculpido na pedra em Lalibela/Etiópia - Nova África

Published: March 16, 2010
Length: 06:57 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: novaafrica

O templo, dedicado a São Jorge, foi esculpido em rocha viva no século XII.

Lalibela rock-hewn churches

Published: September 14, 2013
Length: 40:45 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Red Rock Lalibela Hotel

A short presentation of the Lalibela churches built at the turn of the 12th and 13th centuries, UNESCO world-heritage listed since 1978.

Walking outside Bet Giyorgis Church, Lalibela Ethiopia

Published: March 06, 2013
Length: 54:10 min
Rating: 3 of 5
Author: João Leitão

Walking outside Bet Giyorgis Church, Lalibela Ethiopia.

Most impressive rock-hem church in Lalibela: Saint George Church

Published: August 26, 2014
Length: 54:29 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Miguel Ortega Lafuente

This is (in my modest opinion) the most majestic of Lalibela's churches. A monolithic building of up to 15 meters high carved in the rock. From the outside is quite impressive, not that impressive...