The church as a spiritual fortress is a well-known concept, but combining the two is rare. As the Axumite Empire collapsed in the political turbulence of the 7th and 8th centuries, it is thought that Bet Gabrial could have been a fortified palace for Lalibela. The high walls and excavated trench, which fills with water in the rain, create an impressive approach, while the interior is relatively simple and suitably mysterious. We would tell you how to get to the hidden rooms below, but the priests have forgotten how to access the secret tunnel.
Bet Gabriel Raphael (House of Gabriel Raphael)
