Gondar, Ethiopia, is poised to welcome a global audience to its historic streets for the vibrant Timket celebrations, the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Epiphany, marking the baptism of Jesus Christ. First Deputy Mayor of Gondar City Administration, Chalachew Dagnaw has officially declared the city ready to host visitors from across the globe, promising an unforgettable cultural experience.
"We are thrilled to open our doors to the world," stated Deputy Mayor Chalachew Dagnaw in an exclusive interview with EBC Amharic.
Accordingly, First Deputy Mayor Chalachew announced that Gondar is not just a city; it's a living testament to faith, history, and community spirit also added Timket there is a spectacle and they have prepared to ensure every visitor experiences its magic.
Furthering the matter, Chalachew noted that Gondar's Epiphany celebrations are renowned for their elaborate processions, the vibrant colours of traditional clothing, and the deep spiritual significance.
The festivities centre around the "Tabots," replicas of the Ark of the Covenant, which are carried by priests in a grand procession to sacred pools, per the First Deputy Mayor.
He underscored that the event culminates with the symbolic reenactment of the baptism, where the water is blessed and participants are sprinkled, cleansing and renewing their spirits.
It is known that beyond the religious ceremony, Gondar boasts a rich tapestry of attractions that will be available for visitors to explore. These include:
The Royal Enclosure (Fasil Ghebbi) which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 17th-century fortress complex showcases stunning medieval architecture, offering a glimpse into Ethiopia's imperial past, the Fasilides' Bath which is critical to witness the symbolic heart of the Timket ceremony at these historical baths, which become the epicentre of the celebrations, the Debre Berhan Selassie Church which is also famous for its intricate murals and the unique "eye in the sky" ceiling, this church is a masterpiece of Ethiopian art and religious expression, by the same token, the Gondar's Bustling Markets that discover local crafts, textiles, and spices in the vibrant markets, offering a taste of daily Ethiopian life, and the breathtaking Scenery that Gondar is nestled amidst picturesque landscapes with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing ample opportunities for memorable photographs are among other things to be visited by local and international tourists.
Recognizing the importance of visitor safety, the First Deputy Mayor Chalachew Dagnaw has emphasized the city administration's commitment to maintaining peace and order across Gondar.
"We have diligently worked to address any potential issues and ensure a smooth and secure environment for all," he explained. "We have engaged with the community and local leaders to address concerns and promote a sense of shared responsibility for our guests' well-being, standing hand in glove,” he pinpointed.
He noted that the city is also taking a proactive approach to enhance the visitor experience by working closely with the local community standing in unison more than ever.
According to Chalachew, this includes infrastructure improvements, training programs for hospitality staff, and the preservation of cultural sites.
First Deputy Mayor Chalachew highlighted the commitment to harnessing the city’s resources to provide prompt solutions to issues.
"We urge everyone, both within Ethiopia and across the world, to join us in Gondar to celebrate the Epiphany. Experience the spirituality, culture, and warmth of our community, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Gondar is ready, and we await your arrival with open arms,” he disclosed.