Harar: A Living Museum of Ethiopian History

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Harar: A Living Museum of Ethiopian History

The Harari Regional State (HRS), located 532km east of Addis Ababa, is Ethiopia's smallest region by both population and area. Rich in historical sites, mosques, shrines, and cultural attractions, it's considered an "open museum," with tourism a major economic driver.

Harar, often called the fourth holiest city in Islam, is one of Ethiopia's nine UNESCO World Heritage sites. Its ancient cultural, religious, and artistic heritage has made it a leading tourist destination.

However, Harar's unique cultural and historical attractions, such as the Jegol Wall—a testament to 16th-century Harari architecture and indigenous knowledge—continue to make it a premier tourist destination in Ethiopia.

 

Harar, the HRS capital, founded in the 7th century as the seat of the Adal Muslim State, flourished in the 16th century. This era saw the construction of the Jegol Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site (2006), built in 1552 to defend the city. For centuries, its strategic location and cosmopolitan culture made it a vital trading hub. Ruled by 72 successive amirs until its incorporation into Ethiopia in 1887 by Emperor Menelik II, Harar's independent history is significant.

 

Recognized for its remarkable religious harmony, Harar received the UNESCO Peace Prize in 2002 and 2003. The close proximity of Catholic, Orthodox, and Muslim places of worship within the Jegol Wall exemplifies this peaceful coexistence, a rarity in a world increasingly marked by religious conflict. The Jegol Wall's core zone encompasses the entire city, while its buffer zone extends outwards.

The city's five original gates, once opened and closed daily, served religious, economic, and social functions. In 1924, Emperor Haile Selassie I added a sixth gate, the Duke Ber, which now serves as the main entrance.

Harar's unique blend of Islamic and indigenous traditions has earned it the title of "The Living Museum." Its well-preserved traditional houses, adorned with intricate woodwork and colorful murals, offer a glimpse into the past. The city's numerous museums, including the Harar National Museum, Harari Cultural Museum, and Arthur Rimbaud Museum, showcase its rich history and cultural heritage.

One of Harar's most extraordinary attractions is its unique relationship with animals. Hyena feeding shows are a popular draw, with local handlers summoning and feeding these creatures by name. Also, Harar's Ashura festival, held on the tenth of Muharram in the Islamic calendar, features a unique hyena feeding ritual, attracting visitors from across Ethiopia and beyond.

Another remarkable event takes place at Gidir Megala, a traditional Muslim butcher market within the Jegol walls. Here, a daily spectacle unfolds as eagles perch on the rooftops, patiently waiting to receive pieces of meat offered by hand, a display of remarkable trust and harmony between humans and birds.

 

Harar's religious diversity is another significant aspect of its cultural identity. As Harar continues to evolve, it remains committed to preserving its heritage and promoting sustainable tourism. Its blend of history, culture, and unique traditions makes it a truly unforgettable destination.

 


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