Langston Hughes African American Film Festival 2008

A fascinating documentary about the 900+ year old historic landmark of Lalibela, which consists of 11 rock-hewn Eastern Orthodox churches in Ethiopia. Some 900 years ago, King and Chief Priest Lalibela constructed these churches out of basalt rock high in the mountains of northwestern Ethiopia. The geometric precision of the construction amazes modern architects. The sewage system is still intact. The mural paintings and sculptures inside the buildings astonish visitors. Major events of the Bible are represented in the architecture. The film examines the mystery behind the design and architecture of the churches. How was it possible to create 11 churches from solid rock in only 23 years? Modern architects, church and art historians, engineers, and artists provide insight