Herar Historic Town

Brief Description

The fortified historic town of Harar is located in the eastern part of the country on a plateau with deep gorges surrounded by deserts and savannah. The walls surrounding this sacred Muslim city were built between the 13th and 16th centuries. Harar Jugol, said to be the fourth holiest city of Islam, numbers 82 mosques, three of which date from the 10th century, and 102 shrines, but the townhouses with their exceptional interior design constitute the most spectacular part of Harar's cultural heritage. The impact of African and Islamic traditions on the development of the town's building types and urban layout make for its particular character and uniqueness.

Konso Cultural Landscape

Brief Description

Konso Cultural Landscape is a 55km2 arid property of stone walled terraces and fortified settlements in the Konso highlands of Ethiopia. It constitutes a spectacular example of a living cultural tradition stretching back 21 generations (more than 400 years) adapted to its dry hostile environment. The landscape demonstrates the shared values, social cohesion and engineering knowledge of its communities. The site also features anthropomorphic wooden statues - grouped to represent respected members of their communities and particularly heroic events - which are an exceptional living testimony to funerary traditions that are on the verge of disappearing. Stone steles in the towns express a complex system of marking the passing of generations of leaders.

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Konso Cultural Landscape © Yonas Beyene

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief Synthesis

The Konso Cultural Landscape is characterized by extensive dry stone terraces bearing witness to the persistent human struggle to use and harness the hard, dry and rocky environment. The terraces retain the soil from erosion,collect a maximum of water, discharge the excess, and create terraced fields that are used for agriculture. The terraces are the main features of the Konso landscape and the hills are contoured with the dry stone walls, which at places reach up to 5 meters in height.

The walled towns and settlements (paletas) of the Konso Cultural Landscape are located on high plains or hill summits selected for their strategic and defensive advantage. These towns are circled by between one and six rounds of dry stone defensive walls, built of locally available rock. The cultural spaces inside the walled towns, called moras, retain an important and central role in the life of the Konso. Some walled towns have as many as 17 moras. The tradition of erecting generation marking stones called daga-hela, quarried, transported and erected through a ritual process, makes the Konso one of the last megalithic people.

The traditional forests are used as burial places for ritual leaders and for medicinal purposes. Wooden anthropomorphic statues (waka), carved out of a hard wood and mimicking the deceased, are erected as grave markers. Water reservoirs (harda) located in or near these forests, are communally built and are, like the terraces, maintained by very specific communal social and cultural practices.

Criterion (iii): The Konso Cultural Landscape integrates spectacularly executed dry stone terrace works, which are still actively used by the Konso people, who created them. They bear testimony to the enormous efforts required to use the otherwise hostile environment in an area that covers over 230 square km, an effort which stands as an example of major human achievement.The association between these stone terraces and the fortified towns in their midst are features of an exceptional cultural landscape, which also bears testimony toa living tradition of stele erection. The Konso erect stone steles to commemorate and mark the transfer of responsibility from the older generation to the younger. Konso are among the last stele-erecting people and thus their continuous practice presents an exceptional testimony to an ongoing cultural tradition.

Criterion (v): The relation of the stone terraces and the fortified towns of Konso Cultural Landscape, and its highly organized social system, illustrates an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement and land-use, based on common values that have resulted in the creation of the Konso cultural and socio-economic fabric.The dry stone terraces show a sophisticated adaptive strategy to the environment and the labor needed to construct these terraces necessitated a strong cohesion and unified bond among the clans. This interaction with the environment is based on indigenous engineering knowledge and requires traditional work divisions, which are still utilized to consistently perform maintenance and conservation works.

Integrity

The boundaries of the Konso Cultural Landscape coincide with natural features, like rivers or edges of densely terraced landscape, and are demarcated by the cultural and socio-economic history of the Konso people. All components relevant to the understanding of the traditional system have been included, such as the key tangible attributes of terraces, walled settlements, sacred forests, shrines and burial sites. The clear distinctive character of the landscape is vulnerable to dispersal of the fortified settlements, in case houses are built outside the town walls.

Authenticity

The Konso Cultural Landscape still largely retains its original form and design. The materials used for the construction of the terraces and the town walls are original and their conservation continues following traditional practices, executed by the community members. The terraces continue in their original arrangements, use and function. The walled towns are still inhabited by the communities and remain organized following the traditional system. The traditionally protected forests are still protected and used for ritual and burial and the water reservoirs remain in use and are periodically conserved. Associated traditions, which continue shaping the landscape, such as the ritual erection of generation and man-hood stones and generation trees continues to be actively practiced. The same applies for the use of the moras and the erection of wakas on the graves. The communities nurture the traditional code of respect to the culture and adherence to the age group (hela) and the ward (kanta), which is responsible for the protection and conservation of the attributes and continues the traditional guardianship.

Protection and management requirements

The property is protected by traditional, regional and federal laws. The regional ‘Proclamation to provide for the protection of Konso Cultural Landscape Heritage’ (2010) gives protection to the nominated area including the 12 walled towns and endorses the traditional management system. The traditional code of management is practiced side by side with the modern administrative system and elected community members and elders ensure the protection and management of the cultural properties. In addition, management committees are formed at different levels – community and district – and a Konso Cultural Landscape Management Office with governmental personnel has been established on-site, to address primarily planning, funding, supervision and conservation tasks. Development is strictly regulated in the 2010 proclamation and no development may occur within 50 meters of the outermost walls of the fortified towns.

A management plan sets out in detail the current management structures and explains how the Konso community, through its recognized village committees and the district management committee, will endeavour to ensure the necessary standards of conservation. Presentation and visitor management strategies could yet be better addressed by the community to be of more benefit to the community itself. Supportive funds, including through international cooperation, could contribute to the long-term viability of the traditional management system.

Fasil Ghebbi, Gondar Region top palace to see

Brief Description

In the 16th and 17th centuries, the fortress-city of Fasil Ghebbi was the residence of the Ethiopian emperor Fasilides and his successors. Surrounded by a 900-m-long wall, the city contains palaces, churches, monasteries and unique public and private buildings marked by Hindu and Arab influences, subsequently transformed by the Baroque style brought to Gondar by the Jesuit missionaries.

Long Description

The World Heritage site is an outstanding testimony of the modern Ethiopian civilization on the northern plateau of Tana. The characteristics of the style of the Gondar period appeared at the beginning of the 17th century in the capital city and have subsequently marked Ethiopian architecture in a long-lasting manner.

Flanked by twin mountain streams at an altitude of more than 2,300 m, Gondar was founded by Emperor Fasilidas who, tiring of the pattern of migration that had characterized the lifestyle of so many of his forefathers, moved his capital here in 1636, a role that it filled until 1864. It is famous for its many medieval castles and the design and decoration of its churches. No one knows exactly why Fasilidas chose to establish his headquarters there. Some legends say an archangel prophesied that an Ethiopian capital would be built at a place with a name that began with the letter G. The legend led to a whole series of 16th- and 17th-century towns: Guzara, Gorgora, and finally Gondar. Another legend claims that the city was built in a place chosen by God, who pointed it out to Fasilidas who had followed a buffalo there when hunting.

The main castle, which stands today in a grassy compound surrounded by later fortresses, was built in the late 1630s and early 1640s on the orders of Fasilidas. With its huge towers and looming battlemented walls, it resembles a piece of medieval Europe transposed to Ethiopia. In addition to this castle, Fasiladas is said to have been responsible for the building of a number of other structures, perhaps the oldest of which is the Enqulal Gemb (Egg Castle), so named on account of its egg-shaped domed roof.

Beyond the confines of the city to the north-west by the Qaha River there is another fine building sometimes associated by Fasilidas, a bathing palace. The building is a two-storeyed battlemented structure situated within and on one side of a rectangular pool of water which was supplied by a canal from the nearby river. The bathing pavilion itself stands on pier arches, and contains several rooms reached by a stone bridge, part of which could be raised for defence. The Emperor, who was greatly interested in architecture was also responsible for seven churches and a number of bridges.

Iyasu the Great, a grandson of Fasilidas, was particularly active. His castle was described at the time as finer than the House of Solomon. Its inner walls were decorated with ivory, mirrors and paintings of palm trees and its ceiling was covered with gold-leaf and precious stones. Iyasu's most lasting achievement was the Church of Debra Berhan Selassie (Light of the Trinity), which stands surrounded by a high wall on raised ground to the north-west of the city and continues in regular use. A plain, thatched, rectangular structure on the outside, the interior of Debra Berhan Selassie is marvellously painted with scenes from religious history. The north wall is dominated by a depiction of the Trinity above the Crucifixion; the theme of the south wall is St Mary and that of the east wall the life of Jesus. The west wall shows major saints, with St George in red and gold on a prancing white horse.

Not long after completing this remarkable and impressive work, Iyasu went into deep depression when his favourite concubine died. He abandoned affairs of state and his son, Tekla Haimanot, declared himself Emperor and killed his father. Tekla Haimanot was in his turn murdered; his successor was also forcibly deposed and the next monarch was poisoned. The brutalities came to an end with Emperor Bakaffa, who left two fine castles, one attributed directly to him and the other to his consort, the Empress Mentewab.

Bakaffa's successor, Iyasu II, is regarded by most historians as the last of the Gondar Emperors to rule with full authority. During his reign, work began on a whole range of new buildings outside the main palace compound. The monarch also developed the hills north-west of the city centre known as Kweskwam (after the home of the Virgin Mary).

Source: UNESCO/CLT/WHC

Ethiopian Airlines to connect Indian tourists with tourist hotspots in Africa

Indian tourists will soon have direct flights from several Indian metros and tier-two cities to tourist hotspots in Africa, with the Ethiopian Airlines planning to operate regular flights from these places, The Economic Times reports. 

Already operating daily flights from New Delhi and Mumbai, the Ethiopian Airlines is all set to deploy its newly acquired luxurious Boeing-787 Dreamliner from India's financial capital to attract business and leisure travelers. 

"So far it (the plans for the new routes) is for Chennai, Bangalore and Kolkata. Cochin, Trivandrum and Hyderabad are also interesting destinations for the Ethiopian Airlines... We are trying to start from Chennai within a year," Esayas Woldemariam Hailu, Senior Vice President, Global Sales, Ethiopian Airlines, told PTI here. 

He said Bangalore and other destinations in India's south are currently being explored to start direct flights to the Ethiopian capital. 

Going ahead with its plans to tap the Indian tourists, Ethiopian Airlines is also offering stop-over flights to other African countries like Tanzania and Kenya, which are famous for wildlife, safaris and ethnic tourism. 

On plans to operate Dreamliner aircraft from Mumbai, Hailu said, "We are planning to put Dreamliner 787 in Mumbai, effectively from later this month, immediately after the restrictions from the Dreamliners are lifted." 

Dreamliner aircraft will also increase our tourism volume from India to Ethiopia and rest of Africa, he added. 

Planning to compete with European and Asian countries to tap the Indian travellers, the airlines is also planning to offer discounts and package tours to African tourist hotspots. 

"We have so many packages for Ethiopian and African tourism which will bring the cost down. A new destination which is yet not explored always comes with a premium, but we may minimise our cost and offer discounts to our customers," Hailu said. 

To meet the demand from the Indian market, Ethiopian Airlines has planned to operate big-bodied aircraft such as Boeing 787 and 767-300 from New Delhi and Mumbai. 

Heavily banking upon tourism business from India, the Ethiopian government has extended all its support to its Tourism Ministry and state-owned Ethiopian Airlines. 

"India is a good source market for tourism now a days. More than 13 million travellers travel out of India every year. We expect to have a good share of this market. Even one or two per cent of this is significant for us," Genet Teshome, Ethiopian Consulate General at Mumbai, said.

Source: The Economic Times

why you are not investing ethiopia flowers

 Ethiopia  world fourth largest flower exporter

Indian-owned firms in Ethiopia are making flowers the country's third-largest export earner after coffee and khat, a kind of chewable cannabis.

In the last five years, the Ethiopian floriculture industry has become the second largest flower exporter in Africa (after Kenya) and fourth largest flower exporter in the world. According to one estimate, the export value earned by the country is expected to rise up to $550 million by 2016.

Revenues from flower exports have grown from $27.9 million dollars in 2002-03 to $178.3 million dollars in 2010-11.

Ethiopia has a comparative advantage in the production of roses, especially with favourable climate conditions and availability of labour. The Ethiopian Government also offered incentives to investors.

"Ethiopia has the ideal climate, appropriate conditions and stable, year-round temperature that can ensure better production and quality flowers. The region is acknowledged as one of the best flower growing areas," said the Ethiopian Horticulture Producers & Exporters Association (EHPEA).

Debre Berhan, at an elevation of 2,840 metres above sea levels, has the ideal climate to grow flowers.

One Indian company, ASK Flowers and Greens Plc, is in Debre Berhan town in Amhara regional state, 130 km north of the capital Addis Ababa, which exports 1.2 million flowers a year to European, Middle Eastern and African markets.

Shahab Khan, who set up ASK Flowers and Greens Plc in 2007 at an investment of 20 million birr (US$1 million), said he was putting in another 10 million and planning to enter the Russian market.

"The expansion will add 11 hectares and we expect it to grow over 400 percent of the current capacity," Khan told IANS.

The expansion will see the construction of greenhouses, pack houses, cold storages, irrigation systems, a farm managers' residence, a service water reservoir and a bore-well. "We also envisage entering the Russian market."

ASK was the first flower investment in Amhara. Debre Berhan mayor Getahun Zeke said a farm of ASK type, on a three hectare plot leased from the town administration, is one of the incentives for foreign investors in the country.

In 2012, another Indian, Sanjay Bengali, had set up Esimo Flowers & Agro Industries Plc in the same area with an investment of 100 million birr (US$5 million). Esimo plans to harvest to 90,000 or 100,000 stems.

Bengali has earlier said his company would be growing roses that are bred locally and are similar to Ecuadorian and Colombian breeds.

Another Indian firm, Karuturi Global, is also engaged in the production of cut roses across Ethiopia and Kenya.

Ethiopia"s top heritages

Ethiopia has a maginificent cultural heritage, seven of these are included in the world cultural heritage list:

1. The Simien National Park (North Gondar Zone)
2. The Rock-hewn churches of Lalibela (North Wollo Zone)
3. Castles of Gondar and other monuments of Gonder Style (Gondar)
4. Lower Valley of the Awash palaentological and prehistoric sites (AfarRegion)
5. Yiha pre-historical and archaeological sites, central Tigray (Tigray Region)
6. Axum historical and archaeological sites, central Tigray (Tigray Region)
7. Valley of the Omo, palaentological and prehistoric sites (South Omo Zone)

The natural beauty of Ethiopia amazes the first-time visitor. Ethiopia is a land of rugged mountains (some are over 4000 meters high) broad savannah, lakes and rivers. The unique Rift Valley is a remarkable region of volcanic lakes, with their famous collections of birdlife, great escarpments and stunning vistas. Tisisat, the Blue Nile falls, must rank as one of the greatest natural spectacles in Africa today. With 14 major wildlife reserves, Ethiopia provides a microcosm of the entire subsaharan eco-system. Birdlife abounds and indigenous animals from the rare Walis Ibex to the shy wild ass roam free just as nature intended. Ethiopia, after the rains, is a land decked with flowers and with many more native plants than most countries in Africa. Among the many natural tourist attractions, only the principal ones are briefly given below.

The Simien Mountain National Park

The Simien mountain massif is one of the major highlands of Africa, rising to the highest point in Ethiopia, Ras Dejen (4620m), which is the fourth highest peak in the continent. Although Simien is in Africa and not too far from the equator, snow and ice appear on the highest points and night temperatures often fall below zero.

The national park has three general botanical regions. The higher lands are mountain grasslands with fescue grasses as well as heathers, splendid Red Hot Pokers and Giant Lobelia. The park was created primarily to protect the Walia Ibex, and over 1000 are said to live in the park. Also in the park are families of the unique Gelada Baboon with its scarlet ‘bleeding heart on its chest,’ and the rare Simien fox. The Simien fox, although named after the mountains is rarely seen by the visitor. Over 50 species of birds have been reported in the Simien Mountains.

Access to the park is from Debark, 101km from Gonder, where riding and pack animals may be hired. This should be arranged in advance through your local tour operator or the Office of the Wildlife Conservation Department.

The Blue Nile Falls (Tisisat Falls)

The River Nile, the longest river in Africa, in Ethiopia. From Lake Tana, the Blue Nile, known locally as Abbay, flows from Ethiopia to meet the white Nile in Khartoum to form the great river that gives life to Egypt and the Sudan. It has been said that the Blue Nile contributes up to 80% of the Nile’s flow. Nowhere is it more spectacular than when it thunders over the Tisisat Falls near Bahar Dar. Here millions of gallons of water cascade over the cliff face and into a gorge, creating spectacular rainbows, in one of the most awe-inspiring displays in Africa, earning its name ‘Smoking Water’. The Blue Nile falls can easily be reached from Bahar Dar and the Scenic beauty of the Blue Nile Gorge, 225KM from Addis Ababa, can be enjoyed as part of an excursion from the capital.

Lake Tana

Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia is the source of the Blue Nile from where it starts its long journey to Khartoum and on to the Mediterranean. The 37 islands that are scattered about the surface of the Lake shelter fascinating churches and monastries, some of which have histories dating back to the 13th Century. However, it should be noted that most of the religious houses are not open to women. The most interesting islands are:

Birgida Mariam, Dega Estefanous, Dek, Narga, Tana Cherkos, Mitsele Fasiledes, Kebran and Debre Maryam. Kebran Gabriel is the principal monastery which can be visited by male tourists from Bahar Dar with its impressive Cathedral-like Building first built at the end of the 17th Century. Dega Estephanos, which is also closed to women, is on an island in the lake, and is reached by a very steep and winding path. Although the church is relatively new (only one hundred years old), it houses a Madonna painted in the 15th century. However, the treasury of the monastery is a prime attraction with the remains of several emperors, as well as their robes and jewels. On the banks of the lake are many more religious houses such as Ura Kidane Mehret and Narga Selassie, many of which are open to women.

Near Gorgora, at the northern end of the lake, the Susneyos palace is a forerunner of the magnificent palaces and castles of Gonder, and dates from the reign of Emperor Susneyos. In the same area the medieval church of Debre Sina Mariam is particularly important. A sail or cruise on Lake Tana is one of the most pleasant excursions for visitors to this region, particularly in the heart of the summer. Boats can be hired from the Marine Transport Authority in Bahir Dar. Along the lakeshore bird life, both local and migratory visitors, make this an ideal place for birdwatchers. Bird lovers will not want to miss Fasilidas island, which is especially famous as an important wetland. The whole of the lake Tana region and the Blue Nile Gorge have a wide variety of birds both endemic and visitors. The variety of habitats, from rocky crags to rain forests and important wetlands, ensure that many other different species should be spotted.

The Sof Omar Cave

Sof Omar is one of the most spectacular and extensive underground cave systems in the world. Formed by the Wabi River as it changed its course in the distant past and carved out a new channel through limestone foothills, the Sof Omar systems is an extraordinary natural phenomenon of breathtaking beauty.

The cave which is now an important Islamic Shrine was named after the saintly Sheikh Sof Omar who took refuge here many centuries ago. The cave has a religious history that predates the arrival of the Muslims in Bale – a history calculated in thousands of years.

The Rift Valley

The Ethiopian Rift Valley, which is part of the famous East African Rift Valley, comprises numerous hot springs, beautiful lakes and a variety of wildlife. The valley is the result of two parallel faults in the earth’s surface, between which in distant geological time, the crust was weakened and the land subsided. Ethiopia is often referred to as the ‘water tower’ of Eastern Africa because of the many rivers that pour off the high tableland. The Great Rift Valley’s passage through Ethiopia is marked by a chain of seven lakes. Each of the seven lakes has its own special life and character and provides ideal habitats for the exuberant variety of flora and fauna that make the region a beautiful and exotic destination for tourists. Most of the lakes are suitable and safe for swimming and other water sports. Lakes Abiata and Shalla are ideal places for bird watchers. Most of the Rift Valley lakes are not fully exploited for tourists except lake Langano where tourist class hotels are built. The Rift Valley is also a site of numerous natural hot springs and the chemical contents of the hot springs are highly valued for their therapeutic purposes though at present they are not fully utilised. In short, the Rift Valley is endowed with many beautiful lakes, numerous hot springs, warm and pleasant climate and a variety of wildlife. It is considered as one of the most ideal areas for the development of international tourism in Ethiopia.

The Awash National Park

Lying in the lowlands at the east of Addis Ababa and striding the Awash River, the Awash National Park is one of the finest reserves in Ethiopia. The Awash river, one of the major rivers of the horn of Africa, waters important agricultural lands in the north of Ethiopia and eventually flows into the wilderness of the Danakil Depression. The dramatic Awash Falls, as the river tumbles into its gorge, is the sight not to be missed in the national park. Awash national park, surrounding the dormant volcano of Fantale, is a reserve of arid and semi-arid woodland and savannah, with riverain forests along the Awash river. Forty six species of animals have been identified here, including beisa oryx and Swayne’s heartbeest. The bird life is prolific especially along the river and in the nearby lake Basaka and there are fine endemic amongst the 392 species recorded. A special attraction is the beautiful clear pools of the Filwoha hot springs. Access to the park is best from the main Addis Assab highway, and there is a caravan lodge called Kereyu Lodge at the edged of the gorge.

The Omo National Park

One of the most beautiful national parks in Ethiopia, its 4068 km of wilderness bordered by the Omo river, is home to an amazing range of wildlife. 306 species of birds have been identified here, while large herds of eland, some buffalo, elephants, giraffe, cheetah, lion, leopard, Burchell’s zebra are not uncommon.

The park is not easily accessible, as the current means of access is via Omorate and the ferry to the north bank of the river. The park HQ is 75 km from Kibish settlement. However, a new airstrip is available close to the HQ and a pleasant campsite on the Mui River – plans are in hand for further major improvements.

The Mago National Park

Omo River, the Mago National Park is relatively undeveloped for tourists. The broad grasslands teem with herds of buffalo, giraffe, elephants and kudu, while sometimes it is possible to find lions, leopards and Burchell’s zebra. The abundant bird life here is typical of dry grasslands and river banks.

The Gambala National Park

In these areas many interesting species of animals and birds can often be seen by the visitor. According to the wild life information office, Dowsett Forbs has identified 813 species of birds, 596 residents and 224 regular seasonal migrants in Ethiopia.

Visit Jigjiga

Jijiga (Somali: Jigjiga) is a city in eastern Ethiopia and the capital of the Somali Region (or kilil) of that country. Located in the Jijiga Zone approximately 80 The city is located on the main road between Harar and the Somaliland city of Hargeisa, and is known for incense production. It has enjoyed postal service since 1923, and had telephone service by 1956. An asphalt and concrete road 170 kilometers in length connecting Jijiga with Degehabur was completed 14 November 2008 at a cost of over 230 million Birr. Jijiga is served by Jijiga Airport. Jijiga was a city of Hararghe province, but with the adoption of the 1995 Ethiopian constitution, it became the capital of the Somali Region. Jijiga was mentioned by W.C. Barker in 1842 as one of the mahalla or halting-places of the caravan route between Zeila and Harar.

The beauty of untouched nature and the freshness of mountain peaks with white flourishes, are subject of photos done by mohamed. This paradise for birds and mountain goats, rare and unique plants, is a challenge for many fans of beautiful view through the eye of the camera.

mekele

MEKELE REGION

Africa » Ethiopia » Tigray Region » Mek'ele
January 14th 2013 

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Rope from the Bottom

So I wrapped things up in Axum with a visit to the Bath and Palace of the Queen of Sheba. They were most likely not the Bath and Palace of the Queen of Sheba (the archeaological record dates them far too late). The Bath was most likely what it is today, a water reservoir, and the Palace, just a nobleman's mansion. 

My shoes and boots were fixed to incredible quality and almost look brand new. A very solid $5 investment on nearly $300 worth in shoes. In North America they would have gone straight into the garbage. 

We left Axum and headed to Adwa. Adwa is extremely famous in Ethiopia because it is the site of the most famous battle between Italian and Ethiopian troops. Ethiopia said forever no to European colonialism (unless you count the 5 years of Mussolini's rule, which Ethiopians don't but history books do) when they turned back the Italian forces. Italy was forever embarassed that a bunch of "Africans" had defeated a military tradition which extended back to the glorious Roman Empire. And to this day, discussing the battle with an Ethiopian brings a lot of pride into their eyes. 

Modern day Adwa 

Debre Damos Mountain in the Distance

is extremely boring, but interesting in that there were no other tourists there. This meant that the constant "You, You, You" "Pen, Pen, Pen" "Give me money", etc. didn't really exist. So it was a small vacation in my vacation. I drank a lot of excellent coffee, read, wrote and played even more Ethiopian pool with mixed results (I think I won 3 and lost 2, I am getting better!). 

From Adwa, Simon, Mike and I made our way to Debre Damos. It was a 6km walk from the main road North (we came within 20km of the Eritrean Boarder) through farm land and villages (where some kids decided that, because we didn't give money or pens, they should throw rocks at us) to a table top shaped mountain. From the bottom of the mountain you have to climb up this extremely questionable leather rope (I ended up just mountain climbing with all the easily accessible hand and footholds available). The climb was only about 10m, but the lack of safety equipment made it feel like an entire mountain! 

On top of the Mountain was a massive monestary which housed about 80 monks. The most impressive building on 

The oldest standing Church in Africa?

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from the 6th Century

top was what they called Africa's Oldest Standing Church. Since it is in Northern Ethiopia, it is entirely possible. They said it was dated to the 6th Century (which also makes sense), but I feel it is a few hundred years younger than they claim. I have no evidence, but it just seemed to be in a little bit too good condition to be so old. They could just be taking really good care of it though. 

We were shown around by a priest who was quite excitable because he had been drinking. He showed us inside the church, wood carvings on the ceiling, old books, paintings, etc. He then charged us 200 birr (quite expensive by Ethiopian standards) and we had to kiss his key and his book. A bit awkward, but a funny and interesting experience to reflect on. 

We also saw where the monks store their remains, saw their water reservoirs, saw monkeys and some strange kind of large rodent and walked around in the sun for awhile. 

When we attempted to climb down and leave the monestary we were stopped by another priest who insisted we pay to be let down. Like that 

Cactus Tree

is fair. After considerable argument, we won and we were basically dropped down and shooed away. 

I find it so interesting that people who dedicate their life to a lack of materialism, to religious devotion and seperation from the non spiritiual world can be so obsessed with money. Every corner you turn at these monestaries there is another "fee" for "this or that". It is all bullshit of course, and so far I have gotten away with only paying the entrance fees (which I do believe are fair) but I know that most tourists give in and pay the "dollar or two" that I just can't accept. Seriously, pay to enter but then pay again to have the door opened? And these are suppose to be people of serious religious devotion. I know not all the monks and priests are like this, just the most opportunistic ones and really it just kind of spoils some of the amazing qualities the monestaries have to offer. 

We made it back to the main road and within about 30 seconds we were picked up by a bus going right to where we wanted to end up! Mekele! 

We would have 

Queen Sheba's Palace

made it to Mekele that night had one of the passangers not decided to pick a fight with a police officer. This meant we were stopped in the next town, Adrigat, and were forced to spend the night before continuing on the next morning. Adrigat was a really neat little town and formerly the main trading city with Eritrea before everything went downhill and war broke out between the countries in 1998. That war is still on to some degree. I spent 2 hours in the evening walking around and enjoying, again, not being hassled. The most interesting qualitiy of the city was that I saw a lot of dogs! A first for me in Ethiopia. 

At 5:30 am (or 11:30pm Ethiopian time) we had to wake up and get on the bus that eventually made its way to Mekele. Mekele has so far been quite a neat city, with a few Universities (Ethiopia's Capital of Education they claim), which means excellent English, politie and courteous people as well as a general disinterest in bothering white people like me. The nice break continues! Also there is internet that is not painfully slow! Love it. 

I am undecided about 

Queen Sheba's Big Bath

what is going to happen next. Will have to decide if I am staying with Simon and Mike because they are definitely going tomorrow. Oh....decisions.

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In Ethiopia places to .....Go

Some interesting places in Ethiopia

- Lalibela: the town is very small, and it is there that you can find the famous rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. Try spending a day or so exploring the main churches in town and then hiring a donkey for a day trip up the mountain to see the additional churches and the views up there.

  

- Addis Ababa: The capital of Ethiopia. Culture shock for just about anyone. If you are not of African descent, be prepared to be the subject of a lot of curiosity. Lots of pointing and wanting to walk near you or talk with you ( not if you avoid looking like a tourist). The Markato is the largest in all of Africa; take a day to scope it out without money or cameras and then return once you know the lay of the land and how to manage yourself. It is no more or less safe than rest of Addis - just be sensible...

- Bahir Dar: Great lakeside community. Just a couple paved roads (when was this written?) NONSENSe - it even has a  ring road now 2012 and then tons of more rural life. Friendly people. Among the things you can visit in Bahirdar are Monasteries of Lake Tana , the Blue Nile Falls and the Market of Bahirdar.  it is now a BIG town..........with International Airporrt !!!!!!!!!!

- Axum: Some would say the stelae and the church** reputed to contain the Ark of the Covenant are not very interesting at a first glance but for those who have read more on Axum and its archaeological discoveries it would be more and more captivating. Some would say it is the most interesting of the historic places because as well as being the HQ of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church - with the Ark?, you have the Stelae from 4thC and graves of the Axumite Kings/Emperors. IF paying to see things inside Cathedral compound be aware no ladies in the "monastry" ie the old cathedral!!!    **  The Ark is not "in the church" it is (said to be) in a small building of its own...

- Omo Valley: Book a guide and visit one or more of the multitudinous tribes.  You need a guide because he knows the languages and your visit will be greatly enhanced.

 -Shashemene: The heart of the Rastafari migrated here and ex-patriot Jamaicans blend with locals to create a city that is a bit different from the rest of Ethiopia. Go to a "pharmacy" and learn about traditional medicine. 

-Gondar - castle compound contains several castles built by/for Eth Emperors 3/400 yrs ago.  It is also the gateway to the Simien Mountains. View the endemic Gelada baboons who will sit right beside the path, oblivious to humans. Lots of other endemic flora and fauna to see, hiking through the remote mountains devoid of power lines, coca cola, and billboards, and full of traditional farmers and small settlements welcoming visitors. A guide and a man with a gun have to be hired to enter the area. They also try to give you a cook and no one is really sure why since there are not a lot of food options available in town to carry on the hike. Buy a sheep to slaughter for a laughably small amount of money (under $10) and feed the whole settlement for a true cultural experience never to be forgotten.  Update - you are entering a  National Park. You need to follow the rules. IF camping for a few days a coook is a very good idea. True you might be better bringing  some basics like pasta/tins from Addis...

 - Blue Nile Gorge: has breath taking views, waterfalls, and swimming holes. The road to get there is interesting as well.  The source is Lake Tana or the streams that flow into it. The road from Addis to Bahir Dar crosses the gorge after 200kms.

-Hawassa - capital of southern Ethiopia. Laid back lakeside university  town - numerous hotels. Boats to see hippos.

-Lake Langano - best of the Rift Valley lakes for swimming. No towns on lake , just isolated hotels like Sabana Beach Resort.

-Arba Minch - on the way to Omo area.. Vast numbers of crocs and hippos in Lake Chamo nearby.

-Wenchi Crater Lake - has to be one of the most beautiful places on the planet.  Do 5 hour pony trekking trip, very cheap. Make it a two day trip  from Addis by staying a night at Ambo or Wolisso.

-Bale Mountains - south west Ethiopia. Trekking, see the Eth Wolf. Afro Alpine plateau areas. Beware of lodge at Dinsho - so called Park HQ. Great place, lousy service.

- Western Ethiopia Eco - Touristic Route:- One can enjoy the natural and ethenic diversity in Western Ethiopia. This starts from Ambo, Wonchi creter lake, and Guder fall. In Nekemte aftre 330km from Addis you can visit Kumusa Moroda 18th century palace and Wollega Musium. In Didessa Valley, Just only 50km from Nekemte, one can visit Didessa River Fall, wildlife and birds watching, five tribes, and fishing, trekking, and many other activities are avilable. Didessa Green Valley Resort/lodge provides clean and best restaurant and accomodation facilities.  Further to Gimbi, there  are organic coffee plantations, traditional gold miners in Nejo and Assosa. Dhati - Walal National Park is located in Kelem, near to Dembi Dolo along this route. Next, you can reach to Gambella where you can visit Gambella National Park, Baro river, and diversity of ethnic groups. The return route is through Gore- Mizan Teferi- Jimma and then to Addis Ababa.

             Shame...shame....What happened to Harar???? This city of 60,000 founded in the 11th century should be engraved in all Tour routes.This city is home of the Harari,Somali & Afar tribes in the area.Located just 110Km from Somalia it's the Home of the Hyena Men.When the dusk falls the Hyena Man is calling for his pets to come out of the wordwork.You'll have a chance to actually feed the Hyenas as well.

             The city has 82 mosques with the  Limbaugh Museum in which the famous French Poet once resided.The endless winding alleys of multi colors the city had it's walls fortified in the 17th  Century to battle off Christian Forces.The merchants line the main walkways inside the old town selling traditional goods from fruits & vegatables to having your clothes altered by local tailor with the sewing machine in the street.

            The city has been overshadowed by Dire Dawa which 50 KM from Harar is merely an Early 20th Century Village for the Djibouti Railway from Addis Ababa.It has now become the second largest city in Ethiopia.Besides being a coffee region it's where Qat was founded & Grown.

           Coming from Addis Ababa stopping in Awash to see the national park the oldest in Ethiopia being founded in 1966.You'll see lots of Springbok,Baboons, with a decent waterfalls.Try to merge with people on this tour you'll need a guide as well .Best time to visit is early morning around Dawn. The Genet Hotel has clean rooms in Awash,a newer hotel good rates...recommend 

hi all of you