The rock-hewn churches of Lalibela form eleven churches in four groups, according to UNESCO. Tradition credits King Gebre Meskel Lalibela of the Zagwe dynasty, who reigned about 1181 to 1221, though a local historian credits Queen Meskel Kibra with Biete Abba Libanos. The article names no architects.
Each church is carved from living rock as a monolith, and wells beside many link to an artesian water system. Most are thought to date to the 12th and 13th centuries, but David Phillipson proposes three were carved around 600 to 800. The article cites Aksumite influence in framed doors and windows.
Biete Medhane Alem is believed to be the largest monolithic church in the world, and the Church of Saint George is considered the best preserved. UNESCO listed the site in 1978. It is an active pilgrimage center. The article gives no dimensions.
Comments