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Lalibela at the Heart of Cultural Diplomacy and World Heritage Conservation
Lalibela, Ethiopia — 3–4 July 2026 — Described by visiting ambassadors as “out of this world,” the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela highlighted the profound role of cultural heritage in bringing people together, strengthening international cooperation, and reaffirming collective commitments to its preservation for future generations.
Organized by UNESCO Addis Ababa Liaison Office, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, the Ethiopian Heritage Authority, the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, the Amhara Regional Government, the Lalibela City Administration, and the Sustainable Lalibela Project supported by the Government of France, the diplomatic visit brought together over 70 representatives from more than 40 embassies, United Nations organizations and development partners to experience one of Africa’s most extraordinary cultural and spiritual landmarks.
Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1978, the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela represent an exceptional achievement of medieval architecture and spiritual devotion. The 11 monolithic churches, carved directly from living volcanic rock in the 13th century, were conceived as a “New Jerusalem” and remain today a vibrant place of pilgrimage, worship and cultural expression for Ethiopian Orthodox Christian communities.
During the two-day visit, participants explored the two main groups of churches located on both sides of the Jordan River, including Bete Medhane Alem, Bete Mariam, Bete Ghiorgis, Biete Amanuel, Bete Qeddus Mercoreus and other remarkable structures that demonstrate the extraordinary craftsmanship and engineering achievements of their creators.
Beyond experiencing the architectural and spiritual significance of the site, participants engaged with local communities, religious custodians and heritage stakeholders to better understand both the importance of Lalibela’s preservation and the challenges associated with safeguarding a living heritage site.
Strengthening partnerships for heritage protection
The visit highlighted the importance of international cooperation in protecting World Heritage sites and ensuring that conservation efforts contribute to sustainable development and local community benefits.
For decades, UNESCO has worked closely with the Government of Ethiopia and international partners to support the conservation, protection and sustainable management of Lalibela. Through technical cooperation, capacity development and partnerships, UNESCO continues to contribute to efforts aimed at preserving the site's Outstanding Universal Value while supporting the communities who are the custodians of this living heritage.
The visit also provided an opportunity to showcase ongoing initiatives supporting Lalibela’s recovery and revitalization following the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and recent challenges that affected tourism and local livelihoods.
Visitors reaffirmed that safeguarding World Heritage requires collective commitment, strong partnerships and continued dialogue with all stakeholders. Culture has a unique role in bringing people together, strengthening mutual understanding and contributing to peace and sustainable development.