Lalibela is a town in northern Ethiopia that is famous for its 11 monolithic rock-cut churches. Lalibela is one of Ethiopia's holiest cities, second only to Aksum, and is a center of pilgrimage for much of the country. Lalibela is said to have seen Jerusalem and then attempted to build a New Jerusalem as his capital in response to the capture of old Jerusalem by Muslims in 1187. As such, many features have Biblical names – even the town's river is known as the River Jordan. It remained the capital of Ethiopia from the late 12th century and into the 13th century.
LALIBELA
THING TO DO
* The 11 rock hewn churchs
* Tradtional music, foods and drinks house
* Fabulous views in the highlands
* Lalibela World Culture Centre
HISTORY
In the mid-12 century, the Solomonids were overthrown and replaced by the Zagweth dynasty, the ruling family of a region on the central plateau known as Lasta. Lalibela, an Ethiopian town renowned for its ancient churches carved from solid rock. The 11 churches are regarded as one the wonders of the world, excavated from solid rock with immense underground maze of tunnels and passages.. Ethiopian traditions connects them with the most famous king of the Zagwe dynasty, and the town, formerly known as Roha, has come to be Known by that Kings name. The Life of Lalibela describes how king Lalibela (who ruled from the late 11th to the early 12th centuries) was carried away to the heavenly Jerusalem.
CULTURE
* Traditional dance
* Linen-making (especially scarves)
* Coffee ceremonies
* Basket-making
* Wood carving
