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Lalibela: Ethiopia's Rock-Hewn African Jerusalem
Season 4
Episode 186
Published 1 month ago
Description
Deep in the highlands of Ethiopia, eleven monolithic churches were carved from solid volcanic rock in the 12th and 13th centuries—a feat of faith and engineering that still baffles visitors today. In this episode, we explore the reign of King Lalibela of the Zagwe dynasty, the legends of angelic assistance, and the ingenious construction techniques that created Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Giyorgis, and the other churches of this UNESCO World Heritage site. We also discuss how these churches survived centuries of conflict and weather, their role as a living pilgrimage center, and why Lalibela remains the spiritual heart of Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. Join Lucas and Luna as they uncover the story behind the African Jerusalem.