Harar Jugol, the Fortified Historic Town
Location: Harar, Ethiopia
Year of Inscription: 2006
Criteria: (iii) bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared; (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates a significant stage in human history;
(v) be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change.
Overview: Harar Jugol is a fortified historic town located in the eastern part of Ethiopia. The town has been a center of Islamic culture for over a millennium, with its unique blend of Ethiopian, Arabic, and Indian influences. Harar Jugol is known for its traditional architecture, narrow alleyways, and vibrant markets.
Prominent Features: Harar Jugol is home to many important sites and structures, including:
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the narrow alleyways of the town, visit the Harar Great Mosque, and learn about the history and culture of Harar Jugol at the Rimbaud House Museum. There are also opportunities to see hyenas at night in the nearby Hyena Man area.
Fun Fact: Harar Jugol has been called the "City of Saints" due to its long tradition of Islamic scholarship and spiritual leadership.
Entry Fees: The entrance fee for Harar Jugol is 100 Ethiopian birr (approximately 2.50 USD) per person.
How to Reach It: By Air: The nearest airport is the Dire Dawa International Airport, which is approximately 70 kilometers away from Harar. Ethiopian Airlines operates daily flights to Dire Dawa from Addis Ababa, which takes approximately 1 hour. From Dire Dawa, visitors can take a taxi or a bus to reach Harar.
By Road: Harar is located approximately 525 kilometers east of Addis Ababa and can be reached by road. There are regular bus services from Addis Ababa to Harar, which takes approximately 8-10 hours. Private taxis and cars are also available for hire, but it is recommended to hire a driver who is familiar with the local roads and terrain.
Within the City: Harar Jugol is a small fortified historic town, and it is possible to explore most of it on foot. However, there are also tuk-tuks and local buses available for getting around the city. Visitors can also hire a guide who can take them to the major attractions and provide insights into the history and culture of Harar.
Where to Stay: There are a variety of accommodations available in Harar, including traditional Harari guesthouses, modern hotels, and budget options. Some popular options include the Heritage Plaza Hotel, the Harar Ras Hotel, and the Wonderland Hotel.
Next Stop: Tiya
Year of Inscription: 2006
Criteria: (iii) bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared; (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates a significant stage in human history;
(v) be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change.
Overview: Harar Jugol is a fortified historic town located in the eastern part of Ethiopia. The town has been a center of Islamic culture for over a millennium, with its unique blend of Ethiopian, Arabic, and Indian influences. Harar Jugol is known for its traditional architecture, narrow alleyways, and vibrant markets.
Prominent Features: Harar Jugol is home to many important sites and structures, including:
- The Jugol Walls: The walls of Harar Jugol are a series of earthen fortifications that surround the town. The walls were built in the 16th century and were designed to protect the town from invaders.
- Harar Great Mosque: This mosque is one of the oldest in the country and is a significant example of Islamic architecture.
- Rimbaud House: This house was the former residence of the French poet Arthur Rimbaud, who lived in Harar for several years in the late 19th century. The house is now a museum dedicated to Rimbaud's life and work.
- Traditional Harari Houses: Harar Jugol is known for its traditional Harari houses, which are built from stone and have flat roofs. These houses are characterized by their intricate carvings and unique architectural features.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the narrow alleyways of the town, visit the Harar Great Mosque, and learn about the history and culture of Harar Jugol at the Rimbaud House Museum. There are also opportunities to see hyenas at night in the nearby Hyena Man area.
Fun Fact: Harar Jugol has been called the "City of Saints" due to its long tradition of Islamic scholarship and spiritual leadership.
Entry Fees: The entrance fee for Harar Jugol is 100 Ethiopian birr (approximately 2.50 USD) per person.
How to Reach It: By Air: The nearest airport is the Dire Dawa International Airport, which is approximately 70 kilometers away from Harar. Ethiopian Airlines operates daily flights to Dire Dawa from Addis Ababa, which takes approximately 1 hour. From Dire Dawa, visitors can take a taxi or a bus to reach Harar.
By Road: Harar is located approximately 525 kilometers east of Addis Ababa and can be reached by road. There are regular bus services from Addis Ababa to Harar, which takes approximately 8-10 hours. Private taxis and cars are also available for hire, but it is recommended to hire a driver who is familiar with the local roads and terrain.
Within the City: Harar Jugol is a small fortified historic town, and it is possible to explore most of it on foot. However, there are also tuk-tuks and local buses available for getting around the city. Visitors can also hire a guide who can take them to the major attractions and provide insights into the history and culture of Harar.
Where to Stay: There are a variety of accommodations available in Harar, including traditional Harari guesthouses, modern hotels, and budget options. Some popular options include the Heritage Plaza Hotel, the Harar Ras Hotel, and the Wonderland Hotel.
Next Stop: Tiya