Bet Giorgis

The most famous of Lalibela's rock-hewn churches, this isolated monolith is about 15m high.  The legend surrounding this church says that St George was so offended that none of Lalibela's churches were dedicated to him, he personally visited King Lalibela who promised to build him the finest of all his churches.

The picture on the bottom left shows the graves of pilgrims, who having arrived at Lalibela declared they would stay forever - even after death.  The priest below is blessing a hermit in his cave and, to the right, carrying a traditional umbrella - an integral part of a priest's garb during services.