Tour Guide, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Located in north-east of Ethiopia, Lalibela is another renowned historical destination for tourists all over the world. Placed third in historical sequence, it's site hosts the eighth wonder of the world - the Lalibela rock-hewn churches. UNESCO has recorded this site as one of the world wonders. At the same time, this site is also a holy land for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians.
Today, the town of Lalibela hosts eleven rock-hewn churches and all, apart from their historical significance are renowned for their excellent and unique rock-carvings. The art displayed on the rocks dates from the twelfth century; yet it still remains intact and in a great shape. An active pilgrim site, the town of Lalibela is extensively visited and a source of admiration for architects and tourists alike.
Founded at the center of the Lasta mountain chain, Lalibela was originally called Roha and was a site of the Zagwe dynasty of the Agew people. The decline of the Axumite dynasty gave rise to the Zagwe dynasty and, as a result, power shifted southward from Axum. After an interruption of the Solomonic line for almost 12 years, King Lalibela III, from the last of the Zagwe dynasty, managed to have these rock-hewn churches carved. It took King Lalibela his entire reign and more than 60,000 men to finish the unique rock artworks. According to local accounts and legends, the work was assisted by angels. Other erected cave churches built during this period can also be found at a short distance from this town.