Things to do
5-
Asheton Maryam Monastery
A climb of several hours, or a mule ride for most of the way, reaches a church cut into a cliff face high above the town, with a broad view over the Lasta ranges. The building is modest and the walk is the point. Altitude and loose ground make this harder than it looks on a map.
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Church of Saint George
Carved as a Greek cross sunk in a pit, Bet Giyorgis is the image most associated with Lalibela and stands apart from the two main groups. A sloping trench leads down to the door. Early morning brings white robed worshippers and softer light, and the upper rim gives the view of the roof crosses.
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Lalibela Saturday Market
Farmers walk in from the hills with donkeys, grain, salt bars and chillies to trade on an open slope below the town. The gathering is social as much as commercial and thins out by early afternoon. Saturday is the day, and the ground is dusty enough that a hat earns its place.
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Rock-Hewn Churches
Quarried down into red volcanic tuff and linked by trenches and tunnels, these churches form two clusters and remain in daily use by Orthodox priests. Crosses, drums and painted manuscripts are brought out on request. Shoes come off at each doorway, so simple sandals help. One ticket covers them all across several days.
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Yemrehanna Kristos
Inside a cave on the slopes of Mount Abuna Yosef, a church of alternating wood and stone layers was built in the Aksumite manner, predating the rock churches in town. Bones of pilgrims lie stacked at the back. The drive takes about an hour each way on rough road, then a short uphill walk.
