In the 13th century the Christian kingdom of Lalibela cut many churches out of Ethiopian bedrock. Due to the extended trade networks, Christianity and contemporary European architecture made it to the continent of Africa. The Beta Giorghis, or the Church of Saint George, reflects the shape of the Greek cross prevalent in Byzantine architecture, as well as the Ethiopian practice of cutting out structures from tufa, or any available bedrock. Inside are a carved dome and frescoes, which help relay Christian messages. In the same sense the Byzantine San Vitale in Ravenna, Italy uses a central plan church to display mosaics reflecting Christian stories as well as the power of the ruler Justinian. Although the simple crossing square plan of the Beta Giorghis contrasts with the complex radiating, leaf-like structure of San Vitale, each reflect the religious beliefs and practices of local cultures. 
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