The major pilgrimages are to the towns of Axum and Lalibela to celebrate Genna (Christmas), Timkat (Epiphany), Easter, and Meskel (the discovery of the true cross). People walk hundreds of miles, often barefoot, sleeping in the open to reach their destination. They are typically dressed in white cotton robes and may be seen walking in masses of hundreds or even thousands. The average Ethiopian makes a pilgrimage three times in his or her lifetime.

Lalibela, Ethiopia