The cross of Saint Lalibela (አፍሮ አይገባ መስቀል)
The cross of Saint Lalibela (Afro Ayigeba) is a 7kg pure gold, 2ft long and ornately decorated with four bird heads at the sides and at the top of the cross is a crown of stylized human figures as a symbol of the twelve Apostles.
It is believed to exist since the twelve century and is found in Bet Medhane Alem, which is one of the most notable Rock-hewn Lalibela churches.
For Orthodox religion believers this cross has the power of salvation, reconciliation and adoration. Because of these abilities it has got the name of Afro-Ayigeba. This cross is one of Ethiopia's most precious religious and historical treasures.
This Saint Lalibela’s cross is constantly guarded by a minimum of two men. In 1997 a priest waited until one guard had gone to relieve himself and the remaining one was asleep. Then he snuck in and stole the cross and sold it to an antique dealer in the nearby town of Dessie, who sold it on to an antique dealer in Addis Ababa, who then sold this priceless Ethiopian treasure to a Belgian collector for 25,000 U.S. dollars. After the collector's money was returned, and it was agreed that no further action would be taken the cross was returned in 2001 to its sacramental location in Lalibela where it continues to attract pilgrims from all across the country.
