Lalibela pretty much blows the mind of everyone who visits.  This medieval settlement was designed to be a kind of second Jerusalem and modern day inhabitants remain proud of this distinction.

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Lalibela is perched in the middle of a broad church complex made entire of rock.

There are 11 churches in the settlement, monolithic and grand, all built by King Lalibela as early as the 12th century.

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Remarkable because of the architectural design, the churches are actually dug into the ground.

The most famous, and most beautiful, is St George’s Cathedral.  An awe-inspiring sight.

If you’re so inclined, there are several monasteries in the nearby area that are worth visiting.