Lalibela churches hewn from volcanic rock 800 years ago, still inspire awe.

LALIBELA, Ethiopia — Ten centuries ago, King Lalibela had a vision: That his capital, Roha, in what is now northern Ethiopia, would equal Jerusalem in spiritual and architectural glory.

And thus 11 fantastic churches were hewn in the reddish-pink volcanic scoria rock, each unique in style.

Luckily Lalibela lived to be 96 years old so he saw his legacy completed. When he died in 1221, he was buried in Beta Mikael church, and Roha became known as Lalibela. And it still stands today, a landmark of sacred architecture, a World Heritage Site, and one of the wonders of Africa.

Department Head, Belete Wodaje, told WIC today that that the tourists have visited the 11 rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and other historical, religious and natural tourist attraction sites in the area.