Day Trip to Lalibela Churches

The 12th century old Lalibela rock-hewn churches, are divided into two main clusters: the Northwestern cluster and the Southeastern cluster. This morning you visit Northwestern cluster which consists Five of the most impressive and interconnected churches, namely; Bete Medhane Alem (House of the Saviour of the World): The largest monolithic church in the world, surrounded by 34 exterior columns and featuring an ancient golden cross said to have been owned by King Lalibela. Bete Maryam (House of Mary): One of the oldest and most decorated churches, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Bete Meskel (House of the Cross): A smaller chapel connected to Bete Maryam, with a simple yet elegant design. Bete Denagel (House of Virgins): A small chapel dedicated to female martyrs. Bete Mikael (House of Michael) and Bete Golgotha (House of Golgotha): This church is believed to contain the tomb of King Lalibela.

In the afternoon you visit the Southeastern cluster of churches along with the iconic Bete Giyorgis (Church of St. George) standing separately. The Southeastern cluster of Lalibela’s churches includes some of the most impressive and spiritually significant structures, namely; Bete Gabriel-Rufael (House of Gabriel and Raphael): A twin church connected by a tunnel, believed to have been a royal palace before becoming a place of worship. Bete Merkorios (House of Merkorios): Thought to have been a prison or court, now a church with beautiful frescoes and an underground passage. Bete Amanuel (House of Emmanuel): One of the finest examples of Axumite architecture, possibly a royal chapel. Bete Abba Libanos (House of Abba Libanos): A small but significant church, said to have been built in a single night with the help of angels. Conclude the tour with a visit to the purely monolithic church of Saint George, (Bet Giorgis), constructed by King Lalibela in honor of the patron Saint George.