The Rock-Hewn Churches

Church of St. George

Biete Giorgis (House of St. George)

Located independently, shaped in a cruciform plan. The most famous and well-preserved church, carved in the shape of a cross. It stands in a deep pit with its roof at ground level.

Church of the Savior of the World

Biete Medhane Alem (House of the Saviour of the World)

Part of the north group; home to the Lalibela Cross; believed to be the largest monolithic church in the world.

House of Mary

Biete Maryam (House of Mary)

Part of the north group; has a painted ceiling depicting various biblical scenes. One of the oldest churches, known for its elaborate carvings and considered the most sacred by local priests.

House of the Cross

Biete Meskel (House of the Cross)

Part of the north group.

House of Virgins

Biete Denagel (House of Virgins)

Part of the north group.

House of Golgotha Mikael

Biete Golgotha Mikael (House of Golgotha Mikael)

Part of the north group; has replicas of the tomb of Christ, and of Adam, and the crib of the Nativity.

House of Holy Bread

Biete Lehem (House of Holy Bread)

Part of the south group.

House of St. Mercoreos

Biete Qeddus Mercoreus (House of St. Mercoreos)

Part of the south group.

House of Abbot Libanos

Biete Abba Libanos (House of Abbot Libanos)

Part of the south group.

House of the angels Gabriel and Raphael

Biete Gabriel Rufael (House of the angels Gabriel and Raphael)

Part of the south group.

House of Emmanuel

Biete Amanuel (House of Emmanuel)

Part of the south group.