Harar Jugol

Prague, City of a Hundred Spires, a UNESCO monument and one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Get to know it in person!

Exploring the Area

Step into the enchanting world of Harar Jugol, a captivating fortified city in eastern Ethiopia and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known as a city of peace, “A Gey” (The City) to its inhabitants, and often referred to as the “fourth holiest city of Islam,” Harar is an extraordinary labyrinth of narrow alleyways, vibrant markets, and ancient houses. Its distinctive architecture and rich cultural heritage offer a truly immersive journey into a living historical gem unlike any other in Ethiopia.

Exploring the Ancient Walled City

The heart of Harar is Jugol, the ancient walled city, encircled by impressive defensive walls built between the 13th and 16th centuries. Within these walls, a maze of over 360 alleyways and bustling marketplaces awaits exploration. Each corner reveals intricate traditional Harari houses, often vibrantly painted and adorned with unique decorative elements. Walking through Jugol is like stepping back in time, where the sounds, smells, and sights transport you to a medieval Islamic city, alive with daily commerce and deep-rooted traditions.

A Beacon of Islamic Culture

Harar holds immense significance as a center of Islamic learning and culture. It boasts an impressive number of mosques – estimated to be 99, mirroring the 99 names of Allah – along with numerous shrines and traditional Harari houses. The city’s intellectual and spiritual heritage is palpable, from the melodious calls to prayer echoing through the alleys to the scholarly traditions that have been preserved for centuries. It’s a place where faith, trade, and culture have intertwined to create a unique urban tapestry.

The Hyena Men of Harar

One of Harar’s most unique and captivating traditions is the nightly feeding of wild hyenas, a practice carried out by generations of “Hyena Men” just outside the city walls. This extraordinary interaction, where hyenas are hand-fed meat, offers a thrilling and somewhat surreal experience. It’s a fascinating display of a long-standing, symbiotic relationship between humans and these often-misunderstood nocturnal creatures, providing an unforgettable photographic opportunity and a testament to Harar’s distinctive customs.

Vibrant Markets and Harari Coffee

Harar’s markets are a sensory delight, bursting with color, sound, and activity. Here, you’ll find everything from spices and traditional clothing to handicrafts and Khat (a mild stimulant widely consumed in the region). The city is also renowned for its high-quality coffee, grown in the surrounding highlands. Sampling a fresh cup of Harar coffee in one of the local coffee houses, or purchasing beans directly from the market, is an essential part of experiencing the local culture and flavors.

A Cultural Crossroads and Enduring Spirit

What makes Harar Jugol truly exceptional is its enduring spirit as a historical trade hub and cultural crossroads. For centuries, it served as a vital link between the Red Sea coast, the Ethiopian highlands, and the rest of Africa, absorbing diverse influences while maintaining its unique identity. This blend of East African, Arab, and Indian cultures is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and customs, making Harar a vibrant and singular destination that offers a rare glimpse into a rich, living heritage.

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