Lalibela

Eleven rock-hewn churches carved from the earth in the 13th century make Lalibela one of Ethiopia's most sacred towns, ranked second only to Aksum among the country's holy cities. The churches — including the cross-shaped Bete Giyorgis and the largest, Bete Medhane Alem — draw Ethiopian Orthodox pilgrims and visitors year-round, with Christmas celebrations on 29 Tahsas among the most significant. Set high in the mountains of the Amhara region, the town has a walkable centre with cafés and restaurants.

• Population39,100
• Nearest water from center 6.7 km4.2 mi
• Nearest mountain from center 8.1 km5.0 mi