HARAR THE FOURTH HOLY CITY OF ISLAM
HARAR is one of Ethiopian World Heritage Site located in east Ethiopia on a hilltop, in the eastern extension of the Ethiopian highlands five hundred kilometers from Addis Ababa with an elevation of 1885 meters.
Harar is an ancient walled city. Possessing as many as 99 Mosques, three of which date from the 10 th century and 102 shrines. Harar is considered to be the fourth holy city of Islam with Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem. In Ethiopia as Axum was the window for Christianity, Harar is the same for Islam.
The wall of Harar is locally known as Jugol, The old city cramped within its ancient walls, the new extending freely. The walls are believed to have commenced by Ibn al Wazir Mujahid Nur, a nephew of Ahmed Gragn, who is said to have dug a defensive trench around the town in 16th century.
Beside the wall, the dominant features of the town are the traditional Harari house; the childhood home of late Emperor Haile Selassie; the exciting open market that presents medley of people and culture; the Rimbaud House named after the French poet who lived there in 1880 and the hyena-feeding ritual - where, after dark, the legendary Hyena Man feeds meat by hand - and mouth - to the wild hyenas that haunt the city's fringes. A half day excursion from Harar can be made to Babile Valley of Marvels, situated about 30km from Harar, which is noted for amazing rock formations.
Harar Jugol has been included in the World Heritage List in 2006 by UNESCO in recognition of its cultural heritage.
Harar is also famous for its distinctive, natural processed COFFEES which bear the same name.
Harar Attractions are The old town is home to 110 mosques and many more shrines, centered on Feres Magala Square. Notable buildings include Medhane Alem Cathedral, the house of Ras Mekonnen, the house of Arthur Rimbaud, and the sixteenth century Jami Mosque. The colorful Muslim Market and Christian Market. Harar Beer Stadium is the home stadium for the Harar Beer Bottling FC.
A long-standing tradition of feeding meat to Hyenas (HYENA MAN) is also an impressive night show for Tourists.
The Harar Brewery was established in 1984. Its beers can be sampled at the brewery social club adjacent to the brewery in Harar
