Ethiopian "Lalibela"

Photo report of an unusual complex of churches called "Lalibela" in the ancient city of Lalibela, founded in the 12th century BC in Central Ethiopia.




Lalibela is one of the holy places of the country, conceding only meaningfully Axum. Initially it was called Roch, and later was named the most significant dynasty emperor Zague king Lalibela.
Currently, the majority of Lalibela preserved monuments of medieval Ethiopia, which is why this city is considered the eighth wonder of UNESCO Associations of light and a symbol of the Christian religion, so widespread in the country. The main attraction is the complex of Lalibela churches that were built directly into the rock. According to historians, 11 underground hramovbyli carved into volcanic tufev late 12th century AD during the reign of Emperor Lalibela aforementioned. Their creation took about 23 of the year! According to local legend, before ascending to the throne of the Emperor Lalibela was in Jerusalem, where he was taken up into heaven, and saw the heavenly temple and got a job (or wanted to himself) to create copies. He visited the vision, and one of them on the journey to Jerusalem. According to legend, he decided to create his own holy city in the secluded mountains.