Lalibela, named after a 12th century king of Ethiopia, is famous for its amazing rock cut churches. Carved out of the rock rather than built with stone (see also pentra in Jordan), each of these 11 churches has been excavated from the rock, cutting out the intricate interior with great care. Today, Lalibela Rock Churches are a UNESCO World Heritage site. King Lalibela was a member of the Zagwe dynasty, who had ousted the previous dynasty in the 11th century AD. He was a Christian and his creation of these churches was part of his wish to create a ‘New Jerusalem’ for those who could not make the pilgrimage to the holy sites of that city.
