Lalibela: A Journey to the Great Sacred Sites of Thirteenth Century Ethiopia

Lalibela is a remarkable complex of churches carved out of a single piece of rock in the 13th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a testament to the faith and artistry of the Ethiopian people.

Lalibela in thirteenth century Ethiopia (Great Sacred Sites Series Book 2)

by Damien Pryor

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	759 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	73 pages
Hardcover	:	139 pages
Item Weight	:	9.4 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.54 x 9 inches

FREE

The churches are located in the town of Lalibela, in the Amhara region of Ethiopia. The town is named after King Lalibela, who is said to have had a vision of building a new Jerusalem in Ethiopia. Lalibela commissioned the construction of the churches, which were carved out of the rock over a period of 23 years.

The churches are all connected by a network of tunnels and passages. They are decorated with intricate carvings and paintings. The most famous of the churches is the Church of Saint George, which is carved in the shape of a cross. Other notable churches include the Church of the Holy Cross, the Church of Saint Mary, and the Church of the Savior of the World.

Lalibela is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists. Visitors can explore the churches, learn about their history, and admire their beauty. The town is also a good base for exploring the surrounding area, which is home to a number of other historical and religious sites.

The History of Lalibela

The history of Lalibela is closely tied to the history of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. The church was founded in the 4th century by Saint Frumentius, who converted the Ethiopian king Ezana to Christianity. The church played a major role in the development of Ethiopian culture and society. It was a major patron of the arts and sciences, and it helped to spread Christianity throughout the country.

In the 13th century, King Lalibela decided to build a new Jerusalem in Ethiopia. He commissioned the construction of the churches at Lalibela, which were carved out of the rock over a period of 23 years. The churches were built to be a place of pilgrimage for Christians from all over the world.

Lalibela was a major religious center for centuries. However, its importance declined in the 16th century, when the Portuguese invaded Ethiopia. The Portuguese destroyed many of the churches, and Lalibela was abandoned. The churches were rediscovered in the 19th century, and they have since been restored. Lalibela is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ethiopia.

The Architecture of Lalibela

The churches at Lalibela are all carved out of a single piece of rock. They are a remarkable example of Ethiopian architecture. The churches are all different in size and shape, but they all share a common architectural style. The churches are typically rectangular in shape, with a central nave and two aisles. They are often decorated with intricate carvings and paintings.

The most famous of the churches is the Church of Saint George, which is carved in the shape of a cross. The church is 12 meters long and 8 meters wide. It is decorated with a variety of carvings, including scenes from the Bible. The Church of the Holy Cross is another notable church. It is carved in the shape of a Greek cross. The church is 18 meters long and 12 meters wide. It is decorated with a variety of paintings, including a portrait of King Lalibela.

The churches at Lalibela are a testament to the faith and artistry of the Ethiopian people. They are a unique and beautiful example of Ethiopian architecture. The churches are a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists, and they are a must-see for anyone who is interested in Ethiopian history and culture.

Visiting Lalibela

Lalibela is located in the Amhara region of Ethiopia, approximately 640 kilometers northeast of Addis Ababa. The town is accessible by road and by air. The nearest airport is Lalibela Airport, which is located about 4 kilometers from the town. The airport is served by a number of airlines, including Ethiopian Airlines and Lufthansa.There are a number of ways to visit Lalibela. You can book a guided tour, or you can explore the churches on your own. If you are planning to visit the churches on your own, it is recommended that you hire a guide to help you navigate the complex. You can also Free Download a map of the churches at the visitor center.

The churches at Lalibela are open to visitors from 8am to 5pm. There is a small entrance fee to visit the churches. The fee is used to help maintain the churches.

When visiting the churches, it is important to be respectful of the religious significance of the site. Visitors should dress modestly and avoid making noise. It is also important to be aware of the local customs and traditions.

Lalibela is a unique and beautiful destination. The churches are a testament to the faith and artistry of the Ethiopian people. A visit to Lalibela is a must-see for anyone who is interested in Ethiopian history and culture.

Lalibela in thirteenth century Ethiopia (Great Sacred Sites Series Book 2)

by Damien Pryor

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	759 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	73 pages
Hardcover	:	139 pages
Item Weight	:	9.4 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.54 x 9 inches

FREE