Legend says that King Lalibela returned from Jerusalem with the order to build a second Jerusalem. And so he did! Churches, as high as three-story-buildings, were hewn deep into the reddish colored rock, connected by short tunnels. Little cave-like chapels were carved into the walls.
How long did it all take him? Exactly 23 years! Not a day more or less… Not bad for the 12th Century! But please note: the worldly laborers were supported by the angels to speed up this work. At least says the legend!