Harar City, located in the eastern part of Ethiopia and which is said to be “the fourth holiest city’ of Islam”, is a home to 82 mosques, three of which date from the 10th century, and 102 shrines, and a number of significant tourism potential including amazing architecture its people exceptional interior design that reflect their cultural heritage.
According to historical accounts, the walls surrounding this sacred city were built between the 13th and 16th centuries.
Recently this historic City marked the 26th International Harar Day with various events including staging bazaar and organizing symposium under the theme “Role of the Diaspora to Peace and National Prosperity”, holding street run and a football tournament as well as inaugurating projects and planting tree seedlings.
The city also warmly welcomed the second generation of Ethiopian Diasporas, who have flocked from the four corners of the world to Harar to attend the 26th International Harar Day,
According to reports, a significant number of Diaspora members have returned to their homeland to participate in the 26th Harar International Day festivities.
The day is celebrated every year with the aim to get together the people of Harari who are residing in different parts of the world thereby to help them not forget their culture, history and traditions.
Opening the exhibition and Bazaar staged in Harar City as part of the 26th International Harari Day, Chief Administrator of the Harari State Orwin Bedri said that Harar is a city which has a history of more than one thousand years. It had once its own trading coins called Mahaleq and which was known in international trade, mainly gained recognition in Zayla and Berbera trade.
Therefore, efforts are made to celebrate the 26th International Harar Day with programs in a manner to stimulate the economy by strengthening the mutual interaction in the region, he remarked.
The 26th International Harar Day will be celebrated for the next 10 days with various events such as cultural festivals, sport competitions, symposiums, inaugurations of development projects, taking part in the green legacy programs as well as holding instances that can strengthen solidarity and togetherness.
True, Harar, the fortified historic town is famous for its unique culture and traditions and has a number of must-see attractions. Ranging from its people culture to their hand woven colorful baskets and to their traditional houses and exceptional interior designs which have their own symbolic meaning and purpose, the walled city is famous for its unique history, culture, traditions and architecture.
Most of all, the friendly and welcoming approach of the Harari people coupled with their nightly wild hyenas feeding ritual are some of the incidents that certainly make Hararis so special and the city an interesting place to visit.
Harar is known locally as the City of Peace and love; it has been recognized by UNESCO as a city where citizens live in peace and harmony. What is more, in July 2023, Harar city became the first Sub-Saharan Africa city to be registered as a member of the Organization of World Heritage Cities (OWHC).
Following the diversity of dwellers and their ability to live together peacefully, UNESCO awarded Harar the City of Peace Prize in 2003.
With its historical heritage, cultural diversity, and breathtaking landscapes, Harar offers a captivating and immersive travel experience.
With regard to its rich historical heritage, Harar is steeped in history, with its ancient walls dating back to the 16th century, including mosques and traditional Harari houses, which offer a glimpse into Ethiopia’s past and the city’s significance as a trading hub.
When we come to cultural diversity, no wonder Harar is a melting pot of cultures, particularly the Harari people, known for their warm hospitality. Engage with the locals, witness traditional dances, music performances, and participate in vibrant cultural celebrations. This historical significance and cultural richness has in turn led the city to get recognition and earn a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The city’s unique urban fabric, traditional architecture, and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for cultural enthusiasts.
The intricate woodwork and architectural marvels found in Harar’s mosques and traditional houses are a feast for the eyes. The breathtaking landscapes that surround Harar also have the power to captivate the mind and soul of nature lovers. From lush green hills to panoramic viewpoints, the natural beauty of the place provides ample opportunities for scenic hikes, walks, and wildlife sightings.
Harar is not only a coffee growing area; but it is also renowned for its aromatic coffee, often referred to as “Harari coffee.” Engage in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony and savor the rich flavors of freshly brewed coffee, leave unforgettable experience on every one who by chance visited the area and tasted its coffee.
Harar’s colorful and vibrant markets, where one can find a wide array of traditional crafts, spices, textiles, and local produce are the other scenes that add more color to the incident. The bustling atmosphere and the opportunity to engage with local vendors make for a memorable shopping experience.
Without exaggeration, Harar and the surrounding areas have a lot to offer for those who aspire to spend unforgettable times. In this regard, the ongoing event- the 26th International Day of Harar – gives a favorable opportunity to learn about the city
The 26th International Day of Hara will be celebrated for a span of 10 days to offer opportunities for the Diaspora community to connect with Ethiopia’s history, culture, and wisdom and also to boost tourism and investment in the State, according to Harari Tourism and Heritage Bureau.
The Chief Administrator of the Harari State also called upon foreign and local investors to invest in the historic city of Harar; pledging to provide the required support including land to individuals who are interested to invest and contribute their share to State’s development efforts, it was learnt.
BY STAFF REPORTER
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 12 JULY 2024
