The Castles of Gondar and other monuments (Gondar)

Gondar is famous for its many medieval castles and the design and decoration of its churches. The earliest of the castles was created by Fasilidas himself and is still in such an excellent state of repair that it is possible to climb its stats all the way to the roof, which commands a breathtaking view over much of the city.

748 kilometres from Addis Ababa is the graceful city of Gondar, founded by Emperor Fasilidas in 1635. The city was Ethiopia's capital until the reign of the would-be reforming Emperor Tewodros II, also known as Theodore. During its long years as a capital city, the settlement emerged as one of the largest and most popular cities in the realm. It was a great centre of commerce, trading with the rich lands south of the Blue Nile, as well as with Sudan to the west, and the Red Sea port of Massawa to the north-east. 

          

Besides the famous palaces, visitors can inspect the so-called "Bathing Palace of Emperor Fasilidas" which is used for the annual Timket or Epiphany celebrations, and the abbey of the redoubtable eighteenth century Empress Menteweb at Qwesquam, in the mountains just outside Gondar. 

(Source Internet)

The rock-hewn churches of Lalibela (North Wollo Zone)

Lalibela, 642 kilometres from Addis Ababa, is internationally-renowned for its rock-hewn churches which are sometimes called the "Eighth Wonder of the World". Physically prised from the rock in which they stand, these monolithic churches were originally thought to have been built in the 12th century during the reign of King Lalibela, but some have been dated back to the 10th century. There are eleven churches, assembled in three groupings:

  

The Simien Mountain National Park (North Gondar Zone) 

 

Ethiopia’s uniqueness makes it a fascinating destination for every kind of traveller, but in particular for the traveller who wants that bit more. Ethiopia’s historic sites are extremely wide-ranging and possibly the most extensive in the whole of Sub-Saharan Africa. Experts claim that such sites are only a fraction of what Ethiopia has to offer given that a further 95% remain to be discovered and excavated. 

Seven of Ethiopia's cultural heritage sights are includedin the world cultural heritage list:

The Simien mountain 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.

(Source Internet)

Surma Tribes

 

Surma is the official Ethiopian umbrella term for three ethnic groups in South Ethiopia: the Suri people, the Mursi people and the Mekan people. Very often the name 'Surma' is used for the Suri people as well, but this is wrong, a Suri would never call himself a 'Surma'. The Suri people are semi-nomadic cattle herders and live on the west side of the Omo River in the southwestern part of Ethiopia. This area is still much undeveloped, only an unpaved road leads to the heart of the Suri settlements: Kibish.

Suri people have a cattle-centered culture; the wealth of a family is measured by the number of animals owned. Usually the animals are not eaten unless a big ceremony takes place. The animals are used for milk and blood.

The Suri tribe is used to conflict, like for example the constant conflict with the neighbouring Nyangatom tribe over land and cattle. The Suri culture demands that the men are trained as warriors as well as cattle herders. Stick-fighting events like the 'Zegine' (or 'Saginay', also commonly known as Donga, like the Mursi call the stick fights) take place to train boys and young men and also to allow them to meet women.

However, in the past a new 'gun culture' emerged among the Suri men. The Kalashnikovs are omnipresent and threaten to destabilise their society. Many ceremonies like weddings or funeral celebrations look more like a military ceremony these days with a lot of Kalashnikovs and many gunshots. Even the stick-fighting events are accompanied with gunshots, sometimes deadly in case too much local beer was involved. As a result the Ethiopian government banned the stick fights, which now have to take place secretly and without presence of tourists.

 

Source Hidden Treasures Tour Opration

• ADDIS ABABA CITY TOUR

Africa’s highest city at 2400m above sea level; Addis Ababa is the commercial and political center of Ethiopia and was founded in  late 19th c (1887) during the reign of Emperor Menelik II.

Addis Ababa literally means ‘New Flower’ in English and is the home of about 3.5 million people. The city lies in the center of the country and is known as the diplomatic capital of Africa. It is the headquarters of the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.

The city has a flourishing cultural life and there are daily opportunities to sample Ethiopian Music, song and dance. The National Museum which exhibits Lucy is the world’s oldest human hominid which ages 3.5 million years. Ethnological museum which houses an interesting over view of Ethiopia crafts, culture and art; Merkato-the largest open air market in Africa; Trinity cathedral which is unique both in Africa and Ethiopia with its baroque style architectural design and Mount Entoto 3200 above sea level to visit the panoramic view over the city are worth to visit while you are in Addis. 

There are also a lot to see and do in the capital by day and by night.

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• EXCURSTIONS AROUND ADDIS ABABA

WONCHI CRATER LAKE

Wonchi is a highland area located 155km west of the capital, Addis Ababa. The most prominent feature of the area is the Wonchi Creater Lake. Other major touristic appeals include the beautiful    mountainous landscape, which is partly covered with forest, the islands on the lake and the hot mineral springs, waterfalls and dramatic valley around the lake. The area is the best site for trekking and boating. There are different routes for riding or walking and boating depending on the preference of visitors.

MELKA-QUNTTURE, ADADI MARIAM AND TIYA STELA

Melka Quntture, 52kms south west of Addis Ababa, is situated on the banks of the Awash River. It is an Archeological site (dating back to over 1.5 million years old) and is believed to be the home of Neolithic man. Adadi Maryam- about 90km south of Addis Ababa is the Adadi Maryam cave church, dating back to the Lalibella era in the 13^th c. It is one of the holiest places in the region. Meanwhile, Tiya stale which dates back to 12-15^th C (UNESCO world heritage) site is also worth to a visit.

DEBREZEIT, NAZARETH, SODORE

The small resort town Debrezeit (or Bishoftu) is only one hour’s drive south east of Addis Ababa, at an altitude of 1900m. It enjoys a warm climate. It is surrounded by a series of lovely crater lakes, full of birdlife, and is excellent for walking. Meanwhile, Sodore is situated 126kms south East of Addis. It is a very popular resort with new hotel complex, Olympic size swimming pools, spas and an enlivening climate. Sodore takes advantage of the volcanic mineral springs which bubble in several spots. The nearby Awash River lends its riverine forest in the form of giant shade trees.

MENAGESHA SUBA & ADDIS ALEM

The Menagesh Suba Park is known as the oldest park in Africa. The 14^th c emperor Zera Yacob planted its first trees, and the forest’s rich biodiversity-leopard, giant African forest hog, yellow fronted parrot and giant juniper trees-is a living testimony to the foresight of Ethiopia’s “first conservationist.” It is situated some 35kms away from west of Addis Ababa and it is densely wooded with some 400 years old trees. It is also a sanctuary for several endemic birds and animals such as the Abyssinian Catbird and the Menelik Bush Buck. Addis Alem founded by Menelik II as it was his capital before he moved back to Addis Ababa, is famous town for the church of Debre Zion on the top of a small hill.

DEBRE LIBANOS MONASTERY AND THE PORTUGESE BRIDGE

Drive some 100kms across the eucalyptus wooded Entoto Mountain range to visit the 13^th c monastery of Debre Libanos. The new church is perched on the rim of dizzying gorge of one of the Blue Nile tributaries. The endemic Gelada Baboons can also be seen. The nearby 17^th c Portuguese bridge is quite a scene where one can have a quite picnic lunch.

DEBRE BERHAN & ANKOBER

Drive 140kms north east of Addis Ababa to visit Debre Berhan, the city founded by King Zera Yacob (1434-1468). It was important in the earlier days because of its proximity to Ankober and the trade route through the rift valley to the coast. There is a large wool factory and the teacher training institute in the town. Ankober, located a short distance of 43kms from Debre Berhan, is built on the edge of the great escarpment of the rift valley. It is also founded by King Zera Yacob in the 15th C. Ruins of the palace of King Sahle Selassie and his predecessors are worth visiting in the area.

(Source) Hidden treasures tour office

Introduction

First time visitors to Ethiopia are generally amazed by the stunning natural beauty of a country that is also incredibly rich in culture and history. The striking diversity of landscapes, ancient traditions and people leaves a lasting impression to challenge the misleading stereotype of a land stricken by years of drought and famine.

Brimming with contrasts and extremes, Ethiopia beckons visitors to explore from the tops of its highlands, where mountains soar over 14,100 feet (4,300 meters), to the depths of the Danakil Depression situated below sea level; to discover Abyssinian culture and traditions that date back over 3,000 years; to experience ancient Islamic folklore, as well as the fascinating rituals and sacred ceremonies of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church.

Northern Ethiopia holds the greatest attraction for visitors as one of the country's richest regions for culture, history and natural splendor. The Historic Route takes in the medieval city of Gondar, with more castles, palaces and churches than any other city in Africa; and the ancient capital of the Queen of Sheba and Ethiopia's holiest city, Axum, where the original Ark of the Covenant containing the Ten Commandments is said to rest. Ethiopia's top attraction, however, is undoubtedly the 13th-century rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, among the most incredible man-made structures in the world, revered and renowned among Ethiopians and foreigners alike and the venue for some of the most famous religious festivals in Ethiopia. Taking 24 years to complete, the astounding rock churches are believed to have been created with the help of angels.

The north also boasts the breathtaking Simien Mountains National Park, encompassing the fourth highest peak on the continent, and providing fantastic hiking opportunities and a variety of wildlife. Bahar Dar, situated on Lake Tana, is popular as a base from which to explore the intriguing monasteries built on the many islands scattered about the lake, as well as the Blue Nile Falls, or 'Smoke of Fire', which are the most impressive falls in north eastern Africa.

Southwards, the Rift Valley system is another wondrous region where many other attractions are sited. The six or seven Rift Valley crater lakes are home to a large number of bird and marine life. They are also a paradise for nature and water lovers. National parks with their exotic birds, animals and plant life add to the beauty of the Rift Valley region. Beautiful landscapes and natural features are the most enjoyable components of the system. Salt lakes, active volcano sites and caravan routes still number among Ethiopia's great attractions in the Rift Valley.

Further south is the Omo Valley with its popular ethnic treasures. This is where about 50% of Ethiopia's ethnic groups live: the Konso with their terraced agriculture and rituals; the Mursi with their clay lip plates and barbarian life style; the Hamer with their bull-jumping ceremony, which young men must experience in order to qualify for adulthood; and the Karo with their body painting and adornment. Here unusual traditions such as dance, music and rituals from birth to marriage and burial are still observed in their genuine and original forms.

Ethiopia is used to being overlooked as a tourist destination, but the country's unique attractions are slowly taking pride of place in Africa, and  today the oldest independent nation on the continent welcomes visitors to experience her mosaic of ethnicity, a long and proud history, and an abundance of stunning scenery.

Source (Hidden Treasures Tour opration)

 

 

Lake Ziway

Source Internet

LAKE ZIWAY

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, May 4, 2009 (Ezega.com) -- Zumra Nuru never got a chance to go to school. He cannot read or write. However, as a child, he was a very inquisitive kid. When he was 2 years old, he questioned his mother about religion. One day, he ate a piece of meat from one of his Christian neighbors. This offended his Muslim family, including his mother. His mother snatched the meat from him and threw it away. He was very sorry and asked his mother, “why can’t I have that meat?”

His mother replied “it belongs to Christian people”. Zumra asked “What is Christian, are they not human beings?” His mom replied, “Yes, they are.” Zumra followed on, “Are we not human beings as well?” And his mother replied “Yes we are human beings, too.” “So why can’t we have the same meat?” Zumra asked. His mother could not reply.

 

When he turned 4 years old, he started questioning about the behavior of human beings. He observed the unfairness on gender inequality, maltreatment of the elderly, labor exploitation, cruel punishment of children, and dishonest dealings among people.

When he brought various questions that bothered him inside the house, his parents and relatives considered him mentally ill person. When he turned 13 he was thrown out of his family house. At the age of 20,he decided to travel to places to preach his ideology. In 1980(E.C.), he founded the then 19 member association called Awramba Community. At that time, this group was ostracized by the society and its followers considered radicals. At some point, they were forced to flee their homes, their land confisicated, and their leader, Numra Nuru, arrested for several months.

Awramba was founded in Fogera Woreda in southern Gonder zone of the Amhara Regional State. Currently, the community has 403 members in 109 households, living over 17 heactars of land. The Awramba Community has its own rules and regulations. Formulated by Zumra, the community has four pillars of rules for its society. These are Gender equity; the right of children; the principle of helping the less fortunate, ill and old; and the principle of discouraging dishonesty, lying, murder and stealing.

The Awramba Community does not follow any religion, and they believe in honesty and love for all human beings – this is their religion. Children and women are respected and equal to male adults. They have home-tutors for children from 3-5 years and a library (out of mud hut) and few classrooms. When Zumra is asked about ethnic or religious affiliations he simply says “we belong to every ethnic group; not one or the other; after all, we are creatures of one God (whatever you name it), and we only have one father. How can we choose one while we can have it all?”

Eden Habtamu of Ezega News met with Zumra Nuru, 62, and his wife Enani Kibret, 35, and interviewed them at a hotel in Addis Ababa. Zumra was on visit to Addis Ababa after being invited by Addis Ababa University students to share his experience.

Ezega.com: I am very pleased to have you for my interview, would you please introduce yourself, where were you born and where did you grow up?

Zumra: I am Zumra Nuru, the founder and co-chairperson of the Awramba Community. I was born in Tsimada Wogeda. I grew up in Esti Woreda in Gonder.

 

Ezega.com: What led you to come up with such astonishing ideas and to form this exemplary community?

Zumra: I came up with such an idea out of things that I have seen in my family. My parents were farmers. They both spent the whole day in the farm but when they came back home it was time for my father to rest but never for my mother. After she has been through the same tiresome day with my father, she had to do everything at home. She was expected to cook, clean the house, and us, the children, wash my father’s foot, serve the traditional meal. On the top of that, when my mother could not take care of the house on time, my father abused, insulted and sometimes harmed her. I just wondered why this had to happen to my mother as if she had extra strength or something. But I realized later that this was not an isolated event that only happened in our house, rather it was happening in all families. At the time, I believed (as I do now) that the man as a father and the women as a mother should be engaged in duties in accordance to their capacities and should both be respected and treated equally.

 

The second thing I noticed was that the right of children is not respected in our society as it should be. Too often, children are engaged on duties that do not take into account their capacities for doing things.

 

The third issue I have is, all too often, the less fortunate and the old do not have anyone to take care of them. They may not even have anything to eat and a place to live. But the young and the stronger ones are having the good time and don’t have time to look after the less fortunate ones in our society.

 

Fourth, I saw people hurting, killing, and stealing from one another. I knew that we as people were doing something to others that we would hate if it happened to us. I kept asking why? How do we differ from animals if we don’t think and behave humanly? When I asked my parents such questions, my parents thought I was mentally ill person. But I could not get answers for my questions, nor proof that I was indeed mentally ill.

 

Ezega.com: How did you get the courage to teach your principles and succeed against all odds?  

Zumra: I cannot answer such things. It is not completely a human thing. I did not learn such matters from anyone. I started asking questions since I was four. It is a gift from God – actually a responsibility. I have been through a very rough time, so you can say it is more of a burden.

 

Ezega.com: People are listening to you now and you have your community. Are you happy that you are past the time when no one was listening and you were considered mentally ill person?

Zumra: I shall say it is a bit better now than it was before. At least people are listening. But what matters to me is when people not only listen but also put our teachings into practice. Then I will be very happy.

 

Ezega.com: Do you believe that it is practical and realistic that you can persuade our society to follow such rules?

Zumra: That is exactly what makes me sick. I did not know how to tell what I am thinking and feeling inside. It’s a burden for me. Sometimes I wish I could run away from my conscience, but I just cannot. The people that I love very much do not even understand me. I usually run away for a month or twenty days, just to find some break, but I will be back home again and start teaching although they considered me a mad person.

 

I am thankful for the acceptance we get from everyone for the past 5-6 years. I have been in trouble often and my community has also been in trouble often. We have been migrating from place to place just because people did not understand what we were trying to do. I am thankful at least that we are recognized as a harmless community now.    

 

Ezega.com: What was your main goal when you formed the “Awramaba” community?

Zumra: Generally, in addition to my pervious four points, I wanted to reach literate people everywhere so that my thoughts reach the larger population. I wanted peace and love among all human beings. I believe little by little people are listening to what we are saying. We have many visitors from Ethiopia and from all over the world. I just wanted to take out what was bothering me for a long time. I think I did a little to reach the human heart, but a lot remains for you, the next generation.

 

Ezega.com: Let me come to you, Enani. Zumra seems a bit tired with the speech he has been giving at different places. I understand that “Awramba” has thirteen committees which help your community function properly. Would you mention some of them and their duties and responsibilities?

Enani: Okay, We have development committee which consults the community to be more productive and effective. Reception committee is responsible to welcome and comfort our guests and visitors. Complaint committee has the duty to listen to complaints and find solutions, even if it is rare to see complaints in our community. Problem detectors, Hygiene, Security, Law Makers, Elders’ supporters, Maternity nurtures, and field work facilitators are some of the committees.

 

Ezega.com: How many of the Awramba community members went on to get higher education? Are they contributing something back to their community?

Enani: As you know our number is very small. Five students graduated from universities and currently eleven are studying in different fields. Some of them are assisting us and others are working on their own.

 

Ezega.com: Regarding facilities in your community, what do you lack the most and hence need help from outside?

Enani: We need a modern weaving machine that can function easily and is more productive. The one that we are using is very laborous and less productive.

 Ezega.com: I have heard that you have seventeen hectares of land for 403 people; is it enough for you community to live and farm on?

Enani: No, it is not enough. We have approached the government to give us more land so that we can be more productive. We may even export our products abroad and improve our living in the process. Everyone in our community is eager to work on any field. We just wish to have more land and some modern machines.

 

Ezega.com: Finally, what advice do you wish to give to your fellow citizens? 

Enani: I believe the greatest treasure we have in this world is us human beings. Regardless of everything else, I wish we understand that we are from the same origin; we should love and respect one another.  This is my greatest wish and advice to my fellow Ethiopians.

Eziga.com: Tthank you indeed. Have a good night

 Enani: Never mind! And Good Night

Source Internet  Ezega Ethiopian News, pointing to http://www.Ezega.com.

 

 

Wonchi Crater Lake is found some 27 km south of Ambo. On the way to Wonchi lake, the panorama to the right and left side of the gravel road is breathtaking. Once you arrive at the Crater Lake you would be totally overtaken by the beauty of the surrounding landscape and the freshness of the air.

Wonchi lake is located on a plateau 3386 meters high above sea level. The Lake is 560 hectares wide. The lake’s depth ranges from 9 to 67.8 meters. It is partially surrounded by forest. On the surrounding mountains, you can find monkeys, apes and gazelles. The other attractions surrounding Wonchi lake are the natural hot springs. Southwest of the lake, one can find several lukewarm springs. These hot springs are frequented by many people, as they are believed to have healing powers.

There are two islands in the lake. In one of the islands there is an ancient church called Cherkos monastery. You can navigate to the monasteries on ferries. For 20 Birr ($70 US dollar) round-trip you can hire horses to take you down the mountain to the lake. It takes about one and half hour to reach the lake. If you feel like having soft drinks, water or rest, don’t worry, because there is Abebech Lodge on the hill, which is ready to provide you with all these comforts.

Source Internet