Hares

Harar

The historic city of Harar

Map: 250px

Location in Ethiopia

Country	Ethiopia
Coordinates	9°18′N 42°08′E Fatal error: The format of the coordinate could not be determined. Parsing failed.
Population (2021)	150,000

Harar (Template:Lang-am) is a city in eastern Ethiopia, and the capital of the Harari Region. It is located on a hilltop in the eastern extension of the Ethiopian Highlands, about 500 kilometers from the capital Addis Ababa. Harar is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and as a center of Islamic scholarship in Africa.

History

Harar is one of the oldest cities in Ethiopia, with its origins dating back to the 7th century. It became a major center of Islamic culture and trade in the Horn of Africa. The city was an important trading hub, connecting the interior of Ethiopia with the coastal ports of the Red Sea.

In the 16th century, Harar was the capital of the Adal Sultanate, under the rule of Ahmad ibn Ibrahim al-Ghazi, also known as Ahmad Gragn. During this period, Harar was a center of Islamic learning and culture, attracting scholars and traders from across the Muslim world.

In 1887, Harar was incorporated into the Ethiopian Empire by Emperor Menelik II. Despite this, the city has retained its unique cultural identity, with a blend of Ethiopian and Islamic influences.

Culture

Harar is renowned for its unique cultural heritage. The city is home to a large number of mosques, shrines, and traditional Harari houses. The old town, known as Harar Jugol, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is surrounded by a historic wall that dates back to the 16th century.

The city is famous for its traditional Harari architecture, characterized by narrow alleyways and colorful houses. Harar is also known for its vibrant markets, where one can find a variety of goods, including textiles, spices, and coffee.

Economy

The economy of Harar is primarily based on agriculture, trade, and tourism. The region is known for its production of coffee, which is one of Ethiopia's major exports. Harar coffee is highly prized for its unique flavor and aroma.

Tourism is also an important part of the local economy, with visitors coming to explore the historic sites and experience the unique culture of the city.

Notable People

• Arthur Rimbaud, the French poet, lived in Harar in the late 19th century and worked as a trader.
• Ras Makonnen, a prominent Ethiopian military leader and father of Emperor Haile Selassie I, was born in Harar.

Also see

• Ethiopian Highlands
• Adal Sultanate
• Menelik II
• UNESCO World Heritage Site