"Lalibela - A Holy Heritage Built by Angels" Top 5 Page for this destination Lalibela by frockland

Lalibela Travel Guide: 174 reviews and 418 photos

Carved out of a single rock!

Lalibela is a quiet mountain village that is famous and world wide known for its rock-hewn churches. Only 50 years ago the remote village was quite difficult to reach. Leaving from Weldiya - the nearest city - it took several days by mules get to here. Nowadays it much easier since a road was finished and the airport was opened. But still it takes about 2 days from Bahir Dar and Addis Ababa or three days from Aksum by bus.

Inside a Church

Monolithic churches are a churches made out of a single block of stone. They are usually hewn from the ground or from the side of a hill or mountain. There are many monolithic churches around Tigray but Lalibela is the most well known place for this impressive constructions. All the 13 monolithic churches in Lalibela were probably constructed within a 100-year period around the 13th century. The still functioning churches belong to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. In recognition of their significance the rock hewn churches were declared as a UNESCO World Heritage.

Last visit to Lalibela: Apr 2004
Intro Updated Sep 5, 2004
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Reviews (9)

What else? Favorites (1)

Tickets – are 100 Birr and valid for your entire stay in Lalibela. They will allow you access to all the churches in... more travel advice

Bus Travel Transportation (2)

To reach Lalibela from any destination takes its time. Therefore take the first bus in the morning which leaves around... more travel advice

One of the best restaurants in town - Lalibela

One of the best restaurants in town Restaurants (1)

The local dishes are excellent and delicious. In average you will have to pay about 8 Birr for a local dish and about 15... more travel advice

Nice Place Hotels (1)

The Kedemt Hotel is a friendly locally run place. It very basic but you will find a clean room and the owner may give... more travel advice

Travelogues (3)

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Comments (5)

sarakohen Sep 1, 2006 at 8:06 AM Report Abuse

so funny!
Sininen May 16, 2006 at 9:12 PM Report Abuse

I want to go to Lalibela! You've captured the spirit of the place so well!
barbskie Apr 5, 2006 at 6:32 AM Report Abuse

Very interesting!
nepalgoods Dec 24, 2004 at 1:57 AM Report Abuse

Very interesting. I would love to go there, too!
sachara Sep 5, 2004 at 3:17 AM Report Abuse

Great page and pictures ! Nice you visited Asheton Maryam in the mountains. I forgot to make a picture of the shoes or the shoekeeper, haha.