Genete Mariam
Genete Mariam is one of the most interesting outlying churches, a large monolith carved into a pink-tinged outcrop near the source of the Tekaze River. Supported by pillars, the church is very different from any of the excavation in Lalibela that it is not hidden within a trench, but carved openly on a rocky hilltop – through the cover of scaffolding rather detracts from the impact of seeing from afar according to tradition Genata Mariam was excavated during the reign of Yakumo Amlak, the king who ‘restored’ the Solomonic line in the early 13th century.
Yimrehanna Kristos
Lying 42KM northeast of Lalibela, Yimrehanna Kristos it is an exquisite Church, a masterpiece of Axumite wood and stone construction and renowned for its interior decoration, it’s beautiful wooden coffer ceiling inlaid with hexagons and medallions with both figurative and geometric motifs.
Nanakuli Le’Abe
King Nakuto abdicated his throne in 1270 AD and went to a cave to lead a hermit’s life. This cave has ever since became a monastery and has a dramatic setting.
Asheten Mariam
A 13th C. rock-hewn monastery found about 8 km from Lalibela lying on an altitude of almost 4,000m. It is carved out of a cleft into a cliff face. The setting of the church and the view on the way up is a rewarding experience.
Arbatu Enssessa
An old church detached from the surrounding rock on two sides. The pillars and doors mimicking the Axumite design. It is dedicated to the four beasts, a symbol of the four evangelists who followed Kidus Yohannes.
Bilbala Giorgis
Found 30 km North West of Lalibela, this church is excavated only in the front and is often surrounded by a swarm of supposedly sacred bees. Powder made from crushed rocks near is believed to be a valuable skin treatment.
Bilbala Cherqos
A semi-monolithic church properly orientated and has been worked from a piece tuff from east to west. It is architecturally reminiscent of the facade of Bet Gabriel-Rafael and the admirable murals depicting saints and the Evangelists in the interior are of particular interest to the visitor.
Martin Wynn
