Explore the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela

“We had ventured into the nun’s quarters! Signs of domestic life and lush gardens so close to the rock churches were surprising to say the least. Hobbit-like houses with tiny doors lined the twisted alleys of the ‘neighborhood’, everything in such close distance it was hard not to feel like an intruder. Still, incredible to be standing here, knowing how old these streets are and the life of devotion these nuns have committed themselves to. [...] Be prepared for very dark tunnels, dubious staircases and narrow trenches leading to small cavern-like structures.”

“We started with the four grouped together but first we had a look through the museum which housed artefacts from all of the churches and included very old manuscripts, robes, chalices, artwork as well as a lot more but not really well exhibited and not well lite so we had to use our phone lights to see. The churches are simply an amazing work of engineering, literally carved out of solid rock. They first started by carving the outside down and then worked on the inside leaving pillars to keep strength within the churches. Each church had 3 doors, one for the women, one for the men and one for the priests. Inside was not much in the way of seating but rather just a carpet covered floor, some had frescoes painted in them and some had intricate carvings.”

“When you enter the churches, you must take off your shoes. I would recommend bringing an extra pair of socks to bring and put on before entering the churches as you will either be walking on dusty stone floor or very old carpet. I was glad I had socks on, I wouldn’t have wanted to be in bare feet (but that’s just me).”