The isolated town of Lalibela, situated high up in the Lasta Mountains, is famous throughout the world for its incredible rock-hewn churches. At 2,630m and perched among wild mountains the setting is fantastic. From the 10th to the mid 13th century it was the capital of the Zagwe dynasty that ruled the country and it was under the direction of its most famous King, Lalibela, that the churches were carved. He gathered together the greatest craftsmen possible and some estimates think a many as 40,000 people were required to create the churches.

Of course the main things to see here are the churches. They really are quite extraordinary. Several are more than 10m high and are carved below ground level. Virtually unknown outside Ethiopia for centuries they are undoubtedly on a par with other, better known ‘wonders of the world’. Another place well worth visiting is the church of Ashteen Mariam. Sitting on top of a mountain at an altitude of 4000m it was built so that the local priests could feel closer to Heaven and God.