Lalibela - Southeastern Cluster of Churches (Part 1)

April 19 - The southeastern cluster of churches includes four structures also connected by tunnels and trenches: Bet Gabriel-Rufael, Bet Merkorios, Bet Amanual, and Bet Abba Libanos. 

This is the final section of trail leading up to the southeastern cluster. 

At the top of the trail, the stone wall surrounding the cluster becomes visible. According to local tradition, to walk along this wall to the top then back down again is the path leading to heaven. 

Two Ethiopian women enjoying the serenity of Bet Gabriel-Rufael. 

To reach Bet Gabriel-Rufael, one must first pass through a tunnel then cross a bridge, which at one time consisted a two logs spanning a 30 foot deep chasm. 

Now there's a nice solid bridge with guard rails. 

Icon painting of St. Gabriel

Icon painting of St. Rufael. 

A young priest quietly at prayer. 

Archway at side of Bet Merkorios. 

Ancient stone bell at entrance to Bet Merkorios for calling worshippers to prayer. 

The passage from Bet Merkorios to Bet Amanual was a 200 foot long tunnel, 3 feet wide and 6 feet tall. It was pitch dark and is intended to represent hell. This photo shows the door we passed through as we ascended out of hell. It felt good to get out of there!