Stories
Stories from Lalibela
Reported histories, personal field notes, routes, and encounters that sit beside the factual guidebook.
History
Who Built the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela?
What archaeology, written records, and church tradition tell us about King Lalibela, the Zagwe dynasty, and the making of the churches.
Northern route
The Northern Ethiopia Route
A practical route through Lalibela, Gondar, the Simien Mountains, and Axum, with the connections that need checking before departure.
Craft & devotion
The Living Crosses
A field note on Lalibela's cross makers, the forms they work with, and how to buy from artisans with care.
Field note
A Visit, School Supplies, and What Good Intentions Miss
A personal account of an unplanned exchange, and why future support needs safeguarding, local coordination, and accountability.
Reflection
I Didn't Come to Save Anyone
Antonin reflects on visiting Lalibela, sleeping beside a church, and learning to question his own assumptions about help.