Church of Saint George

The Church of Saint George stands fifteen meters high, carved downward into volcanic rock in the shape of a symmetrical cross with precision.

Ethiopian King Lalibela commissioned this monolithic church around 1200 CE as part of his vision to create a new Jerusalem in Africa.

Ethiopian Orthodox Christians gather at the church during religious festivals, performing ceremonies with traditional instruments and prayer rituals throughout the year.

Visitors must remove shoes before entering the church, walk on protective carpets across the stone floors, and follow local guides through narrow passages.

The roof contains intricate drainage channels and systems carved into solid rock that have protected the structure from water damage for eight centuries.

Location: Lalibela

Inception: 12 century

Part of: Monolithic churches in Lalibela

GPS coordinates: 12.03163,39.04115

Latest update: June 17, 2025 18:50