LALIBELA & LAKE TANA ISLANDS

Lalibela

Lalibela, also known as the second Jerusalem, is renowned for its famous monolithic rock-hewn churches, showcasing remarkable architectural skill. These magnificent churches, erected in the 11th century by King Lalibela, stand as a testament to his ambition to establish this place as a holy land of Christianity next to Jerusalem. The sacred town boasts 11 surrounding churches, each with its own architectural specialties, yet all carved from a single bedrock. Recognized by UNESCO as world heritage sites, these churches are divided into two main groups: the north and south groups.

 

Among the notable churches in Lalibela are:

Bete Giorgis: A major and attractive rock-hewn church, forming the shape of a cross with remarkable door and window spaces. It is one of the must-visit attractions in Lalibela for tourists interested in historical tour packages to Ethiopia.

Bete Medhane Alem: The largest monolithic church in the world, adorned with mural paintings, making it a pilgrimage site for Coptic Christians since the 12th century.

Bete Mariam: The oldest of the Lalibela churches, featuring intricate carvings on its outer walls, including various shapes such as crosses, square windows, and semi-circle windows.

Bete Gologotha: Well-known for its painted artwork and reputed to contain the tomb of King Lalibela.

Nearby Lalibela

Nakuto Le Ab Church: A tourist attraction located just 6 km from Lalibela, built inside a mountain cave with identical paintings and attractive door and window designs.

Yimrhane Kirstos: Constructed by King Lalibela’s cousin outside the town, this church is located inside a mountain, making it semi-monolithic and adorned with beautiful mural paintings. Including the Lalibela rock-hewn churches, visit these important historical sites with the Best tour company in Ethiopia.

Lake Tana Islands and Monastery

Lake Tana boasts numerous ancient churches and monasteries on its islands, dating back to before the 14th century. These islands, with their lush greenery and coffee farms, are havens for endemic birds of Ethiopia. Notable sites include:

Tana Cherkos: Known as the resting place of the Ark of the Covenant before its transfer to the St. Mary Church of Axum.

Ura Kidane Mihret: An ancient church from the 16th century, adorned with colorful wall paintings depicting miracles.

Kibran Gebriel: Home to ancient manuscripts and the renowned ancient Gospel.

Zege Peninsula

Situated on the southwestern shore of Lake Tana, the Zege Peninsula is home to six churches and monasteries, including Zege Giorgis, Bete Mariam, and Ura Kidane Mehret. The island’s natural forests and coffee farms are inhabited by monkeys and birds, offering a serene retreat. To visit these monasteries, you need to make a boat trip on Lake Tana. Our historical tour package to Ethiopia provides you with good insights into these destinations along with other important historical sites in North Ethiopia.

Blue Nile Falls

Also known as ‘Tis Abay’ in Amharic, the Blue Nile Falls is a spectacular waterfall located about 30km downstream of Lake Tana. Accessible from the town of Bahirdar, it offers breathtaking views and opportunities to witness endemic plant species and wildlife. The area is a popular tourist attraction in Ethiopia, making it an essential stop for visitors exploring Ethiopia tour packages.

For a more immersive experience in Ethiopia’s cultural and natural wonders, trust the Best tour operator in Ethiopia and the Best travel agency in Ethiopia. Whether you’re exploring the ancient rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, embarking on Omo Valley tours Ethiopia, or discovering the vibrant life around Lake Tana, our team ensures an unforgettable journey.

Click Here to Check our Historical tour packages to Ethiopia.

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