Bete Abba Libanos, Rock-hewn Orthodox church in Lalibela, Ethiopia
The Bete Abba Libanos church features three sides carved into narrow tunnels, with a rectangular layout extending from east to west through the rock.
The construction of this monolithic church began around 1200 under the direction of Meskal Kibra, who dedicated it to honor her husband Saint Lalibela.
Ethiopian Orthodox Christians gather at this sacred site throughout the year to conduct traditional ceremonies and maintain their religious practices.
The church structure connects to surrounding rock formations through a network of tunnels, requiring visitors to navigate carefully through narrow passages.
This semi-monolithic structure remains partially attached to its original rock, with only its roof completely separated from the mountain.
Location: Lalibela
Inception: 12 century
Part of: Monolithic churches in Lalibela
GPS coordinates: 12.03127,39.04516
Latest update: June 17, 2025 18:51
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