My Passion for Tourist Destinations

The rock-hewn churches of Lalibela in Ethiopia are extraordinary for their unique construction, carved directly from solid rock in the 12th century by King Lalibela to create a "New Jerusalem". These 11 monolithic churches, interconnected by a labyrinth of tunnels and passageways, feature intricate designs and symbolic layouts representing biblical locations. Highlights include the Church of Saint George (Bete Giyorgis) with its iconic cross-shaped design, and the richly decorated interiors with ancient carvings and frescoes. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Lalibela attracts over 50,000 tourists annually, serving as an active pilgrimage destination and a testament to medieval Ethiopian craftsmanship, spiritual devotion, and cultural heritage. This remarkable site continues to inspire awe and reverence among visitors from around the world. It took 24 years to build all the 11 rock hewn churches.