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Church of St. George (Bete Giyorgis)
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Historical site
Bete Giyorgis, or the Church of Saint George, is a monolithic rock-hewn church in Lalibela, Ethiopia. Carved out of a single block of volcanic tuff, it measures 12 meters in each dimension and is shaped like a cross. Construction is estimated to have taken 20 years and required the removal of 800 cubic meters of rock. The church is part of the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela UNESCO World Heritage site. It is oriented east-west, with three doors leading to the interior. The roof features a cross-shaped design visible from above. Bete Giyorgis is considered the finest and best-preserved of Lalibela's churches, attracting over 100,000 visitors annually. Its precise construction continues to puzzle engineers today.
- Location: Ethiopia
- Nearby: Weldiya (63 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 18 | 20 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 17 |
| Rain mm | 6 | 12 | 29 | 48 | 62 | 77 | 296 | 283 | 106 | 37 | 17 | 7 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Church of St. George (Bete Giyorgis) is entirely carved into the rock and can be visited inside. Access is via a trench carved into the stone that surrounds the cross-shaped structure.
Typical hours
The church is usually open daily from 8 to 12 and 2 to 5 pm, but times may vary due to services. Best to come in the morning when visitor numbers are lower.
Photography
Photography inside is allowed without flash, but may be prohibited in some areas. Outside shots of the entire church are especially impressive from the opposite rock ledge.
Time needed
Allow about one to one and a half hours to visit the church at a leisurely pace. If you also want to see the other rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, plan a full day.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the other churches in Lalibela, such as Bete Medhane Alem and Bete Maryam. The nearby cave churches in the area are also worth a trip.
Getting there
Lalibela is reachable by plane from Addis Ababa; the flight takes about an hour. From the airport, taxis and buses run to the town and the churches.
Insider tip
Hire a local guide who will explain the biblical stories and the construction method of the church. Wear comfortable shoes as you will encounter many stairs and uneven rock floors.
Geography
Facts
- 13th century construction date
- 12-meter cross-shaped nave
- Excavation depth of 12 meters
- Approximately 800 workers involved
- Oriented exactly east-west
- Roof cross visible from air
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Sights in the town Church of St. George (Bete Giyorgis) (1)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Church of St. George in Lalibela?
The monolithic Church of St. George is one of the most famous rock-hewn churches in the world, carved from a single block.
What is the best time for a visit?
Early in the morning shortly after opening, the light is best for photos and it is less crowded.
Do I need a guide in Lalibela?
Highly recommended as the history of the churches is complex and it is difficult to find your way without help.
Is the site accessible?
No, the paths are uneven and consist of stairs and narrow trails.
Is there an entrance fee for Lalibela?
Yes, there is a multi-day ticket that grants access to all churches in the complex.
Church of St. George (Bete Giyorgis): where is it located?
Church of St. George (Bete Giyorgis) is located in Ethiopia.
Church of St. George (Bete Giyorgis): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Church of St. George (Bete Giyorgis): why is it worth visiting?
Bete Giyorgis, or the Church of Saint George, is a monolithic rock-hewn church in Lalibela, Ethiopia.
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Church of St. George Lalibela
The most famous and iconic of the rock-hewn churches in Lalibela, carved in the shape of a cross.
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Biete Amanuel
An elaborately carved monolithic church in Lalibela, considered an architectural masterpiece.
Debre Berhan Selassie Church
A historic church in Gondar, famous for its magnificent interior paintings of angelic faces on the ceiling.
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