Lalibela, Ethiopia
Carved Churches - Day 2
Bit of a lazy morning but still up at 6. Attempted a shower but no hot water, even though I could hear the water heater cycling during the night. Ah, well, not the first time in my life I’ve washed the pits and the privates with cold water. Actually, that has been the norm on this trip so far.
Poked around looking for birds for a bit outside my room while waiting for breakfast. A few new species (Tacazze Sunbird, African Thrush, Red-billed Firefinch, and a Ruppell’s Robin Chat). Not bad for 15 minutes.
Tacazze Sunbird
After breakfast I spent most of the morning wandering around town (without my camera) getting harangued by school kids. To be fair, I encouraged them by asking them what they wanted to be when they grew up. It was an ambitious group – three doctors, a dentist, a teacher, and a politician. Let’s hope one or two of them make it.
I also managed to get in a game of cutthroat on the pool table with two older teens I had met – Gashaw and Birhan. I was quickly eliminated from the game but place that squarely on the poor quality of the table.
After lunch my guide picked me up to tour the second group of churches. All of the churches, both yesterday and today, are carved in volcaniclastic rock. The group I visited today are a little higher in elevation and are carved into less competent rock that includes numerous blocks and bombs.
I tried to do better with the names today – and utterly failed. I’ve tried to label photos with the appropriate church or structure. I will not stake my life on the accuracy.
Dinner with an interesting Brazilian gentleman (botanist, world traveler). Hoping we can catch up again in Brazil or the States. Funny how I find people that are curious about our world the most interesting type of people.