“Discover the hidden gem of Harar Jugol and immerse yourself in Ethiopia’s rich history and traditions.”

Discovering the Vibrant Culture and Architecture of Harar Jugol, Ethiopia’s UNESCO World Heritage Site

Ethiopia, a landlocked country in the Horn of Africa, is a melting pot of diverse cultures and traditions. The country boasts of a rich history that dates back to ancient times, and one such place that stands as a testimony to this history is the ancient walled city of Harar. Harar, also known as Harar Jugol, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that has stood the test of time and remains one of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in Africa.

Wandering through the narrow alleys of Harar Jugol is like stepping back in time. The city is surrounded by a 5km-long wall, built in the 16th century to protect the city from invaders. The wall has five gates, each named after the direction it faces. The gates are Bab al-Jibbah (east), Bab al-Ain (west), Bab al-Qebli (north), Bab al-Hadid (south), and Bab ar-Rayyan (southeast). Walking through these gates, one can feel the weight of history on their shoulders.

Harar Jugol is a city that has seen the rise and fall of empires. It was the capital of the Harari Kingdom from the 10th to the 19th century and was later ruled by the Ottoman Empire, Egypt, Italy, and Ethiopia. The city has been a center of trade and commerce for centuries, and it still retains its vibrant and bustling atmosphere.

The architecture of Harar Jugol is a mix of African, Arab, and Indian styles, reflecting the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the city over the years. The city is home to over 80 mosques, including the Grand Mosque of Harar, one of the oldest mosques in Africa. The Grand Mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, with its white walls and minarets towering over the city.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Harar Jugol is its cultural heritage. The city is home to the Harari people, an ethnic group with a unique culture and language. The Harari people are known for their love of music, dance, and poetry, and their traditions are still alive and well in the city. Visitors can witness traditional Harari dance performances and listen to the beautiful Harari music, which is a blend of African, Arab, and Indian styles.

Harar Jugol is also famous for its coffee. The city has been a center of coffee production for centuries, and its coffee is renowned for its rich flavor and aroma. Visitors can sample the local coffee at one of the many coffee shops in the city, or they can visit a coffee farm and see how the coffee is grown, harvested, and roasted.

Another must-see attraction in Harar Jugol is the Hyena Man. The Hyena Man is a local man who has been feeding wild hyenas for over 30 years. Every night, he goes to the outskirts of the city, where he calls out to the hyenas and feeds them by hand. Visitors can watch this incredible spectacle and even feed the hyenas themselves under the guidance of the Hyena Man.

Harar Jugol is also a city of museums. The city has several museums that showcase its rich history and culture. The Harar Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of the city. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, including traditional Harari clothing, jewelry, and weapons. The Rimbaud Museum is another must-visit, dedicated to the French poet Arthur Rimbaud, who lived in Harar for a time.

In conclusion, Harar Jugol is a city that is steeped in history, culture, and tradition. It is a place where visitors can wander through the narrow alleys of the ancient walled city and experience its vibrant culture and architecture. It is a city where the past and present merge seamlessly, and where visitors can witness the enduring traditions of the Harari people. Harar Jugol is a true gem of Ethiopia and a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the rich history and culture of this fascinating country.