LALIBELA
Lalibela is one of the holiest cities in Ethiopia and is the center of pilgrimage. The population of Lalibela is almost completely Ethiopian Orthodox Christian. The churches themselves date from the 7th to 13th centuries, and are traditionally dated to the reign of the Zagwe king Gebre Mesqel Lalibela. The initial name for the city was Roha before it was later changed to Lalibela. The city is a medieval town and regarded as one of the greatest historical sites in the Christian world. Lalibela lays at an altitude of 2520m above sea level and has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1978.
Best time to visit
Lalibela can be visited all year round.
Highlights
This city is known around the world for its churches carved below ground level. Though the dating of the churches is not well established, most are thought to have been built during the reign of Lalibela, namely during the 12th and 13th centuries. Below follows a list of the 11 churches: Biete Medhane Alem (House of the Savior of the World), home to the Lalibela Cross; Biete Maryam (House of Mary) is probably the oldest of these churches; Biete Golgotha Mikael known for its arts and said to contain the tomb of King Lalibela; Biete Meskel (House of the Cross); Biete Denagel (House of Virgins); Church of Saint George, thought to be the most finely executed and best preserved church; Biete Amanuel (House of Immanuel), possibly the former royal chapel; Biete Qeddus Mercoreus (House of Mark the Evangelist), which may be a former prison; Biete Abba Libanos (House of Abbot Libanos); Biete Gabriel-Rufael (House of the angels Gabriel and Raphael) possibly a former royal palace; Biete Lehem (Bethlehem or House of Bread).
Our Favourite Properties
Mezena Lodge
The name “Mezena” means a landscape that is flat, fertile and central for all places. As the name suggests, Mezena lodge is truly a serene, smooth and flat place. The lodge is eco-friendly and offers high end (5 star) services. It is located about 25 minutes away from the Lalibela airport. All the churches and other historical sites in the surrounding can easily be accessed from Mezena. See more.
Old Abyssinia Lodge
The lodge is located in Geterge area and has been traditionally built with full respect to the environment.The lodge’s employees are fully dedicated to ensure your stay in Old Abyssinia is an unforgettable experience. The rooms are rondavel and stunningly furnished with Ethiopian artefacts and fabrics. A great hot shower and terrace with those amazing views. See more.
Sora Lodge Lalibela
The word “Sora” has multiple meanings: it refers to a beautiful and green hill outside Lalibela. Second, according to the legend, it is the name of King Lalibela`s golden carpet. Third, it is a popular song and dance of Lalibela and its locals. Sora is located about 35 minutes from Lalibela airport. What makes this lodge unique is its location and the breathe taking views. The lodge is only 15 minutes’ walk away from the southern churches and 5 minutes more to the Northern churches.See more.
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