Debre-Semba-Bet-Giyorgis is one of the eleven rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, Ethiopia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This church, dedicated to Saint George, is perhaps the most famous and striking due to its unique architectural design and the legend surrounding its construction.
The church is a monolithic structure, carved from the living rock of the earth, unlike the other churches in Lalibela which are either carved from the rock face or freestanding. Debre-Semba-Bet-Giyorgis is shaped like a Greek cross and stands 12 meters high, with its roof at ground level, creating an impressive sight. It is surrounded by a deep trench, which is believed to have been dug before the church was carved out from the rock below, showcasing the engineering prowess of the builders.
The construction of Lalibela's rock-hewn churches, including Debre-Semba-Bet-Giyorgis, is traditionally attributed to King Lalibela in the late 12th and early 13th centuries. According to legend, the churches were built to create a "New Jerusalem" after Muslim conquests made pilgrimages to the Holy Land difficult. King Lalibela is said to have been inspired by divine visions, and the construction was reportedly aided by angels:
As a church dedicated to Saint George, who is the patron saint of Ethiopia, Debre-Semba-Bet-Giyorgis holds immense religious importance. It is still an active place of worship where pilgrims come to pray and participate in religious ceremonies:
Today, Debre-Semba-Bet-Giyorgis continues to be a focal point for both religious pilgrims and tourists interested in the architectural and historical marvels of Lalibela. Preservation efforts are ongoing to maintain the structural integrity of this ancient site:
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