Family Heritage Journey to Harar

A Homecoming to Remember

After years of living in Germany, the feeling of finally returning to my birthplace, Harar, with my husband, Hans-Peter, and our daughter, Lila, is indescribable. This journey is more than just a vacation; it's a pilgrimage to my roots, a chance to share the vibrant culture of Harar with my family, and to immerse myself once again in the sights, sounds, and aromas that shaped my childhood.

Our day began with a hearty Ethiopian breakfast at Fresh Touch Restaurant. I opted for *fuul*, a flavorful dish of mashed fava beans, while Hans-Peter enjoyed some *chechebsa*, a spiced, shredded bread sauteed in *berbere* spice and *niter kibbeh* (spiced clarified butter). Lila, ever adventurous, tried a bit of both, her face lighting up with each new taste. It was so heartwarming to see her embrace the flavors of my childhood. Fresh Touch was indeed a great start to our day. The cozy setting and the friendly service made us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Fresh Touch Restaurant in Harar – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

Home is not a place, it's a feeling.

Our main destination for the day was Harar Jegol, the fortified historic town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As we approached the ancient walls, I felt a surge of pride. These walls, standing tall and proud, have witnessed centuries of history, guarding the unique culture and traditions of the Harari people. I explained to Hans-Peter and Lila that Harar is considered the fourth holiest city in Islam, a place of peace and spirituality. The city's maze-like alleyways, with their colorful buildings and bustling markets, transported us back in time. It was fascinating to see the blend of African and Islamic influences in the architecture and the daily life of the city.


Experience the authentic charm of Harar Jegol, a UNESCO World Heritage site, steeped in rich history and vibrant culture, perfect for travelers seeking a unique adventure.

We wandered through the narrow streets, soaking in the atmosphere, admiring the traditional Harari houses with their intricate designs. Lila was particularly fascinated by the vibrant colors and the ornate decorations. I shared stories of my childhood, pointing out the places where I used to play with my friends, the shops where my mother would buy spices, and the mosques where we would gather for prayers.

For lunch, we stopped at Nati Cafe & Restaurant, a local favorite known for its delicious juices and traditional Ethiopian dishes. We sat on the balcony, enjoying the panoramic view of the city while savoring our meal. I had some *shiro*, a flavorful stew made from ground chickpeas, while Hans-Peter tried *tibs*, sauteed meat with vegetables. Lila, of course, opted for a mango juice, her favorite. The food was simple but delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming.


Discover authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Nati Cafe & Restaurant in Harar – where every meal tells a story.

After lunch, we ventured into the heart of the market, a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. The market was bustling with activity, vendors selling everything from spices and textiles to handicrafts and jewelry. I haggled for some colorful scarves and a traditional Harari basket, while Hans-Peter captured the scene with his camera. Lila was particularly excited by the piles of spices, sniffing each one with curiosity. It was wonderful to see her engage with the local culture in such a vibrant and immersive way.

We then made our way to Tujuba, a local shop known for its exquisite batik clothing. I wanted to find something special to remember this trip by, and Tujuba did not disappoint. The shop was filled with beautiful, hand-painted fabrics in vibrant colors and intricate designs. I chose a stunning batik dress, while Lila picked out a colorful scarf. It felt good to support local artisans and to take home a piece of Harari art.


Explore Tujuba in Harar for exquisite batik clothing and experience the vibrant art and culture of Ethiopia.

As the day drew to a close, we had dinner at Harla Cafe and Restaurant. The restaurant had a cozy and inviting ambiance, with traditional Ethiopian decor and friendly staff. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including *injera* with different stews, grilled meats, and vegetarian options. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and convivial. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Harar.


Discover the flavors of Ethiopia at Harla Cafe and Restaurant in Harar – where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.

Reflecting on the day, I am filled with gratitude. It was a day of reconnecting with my roots, sharing my heritage with my family, and creating lasting memories. Seeing Lila's eyes light up as she experienced the sights, sounds, and flavors of Harar made my heart swell with pride. And having Hans-Peter by my side, always supportive and curious, made the experience even more special. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Rimbaud's House & Museum and the Sherif Private Museum. I am excited to delve deeper into the history and culture of this amazing city and share more of its wonders with my family.

The warmth of the Harari people, the vibrant culture, and the rich history of this ancient city have already cast their spell on us. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

The experience today reminded me of a quote I once heard:

We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.

This trip is not just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing life to the fullest, connecting with my heritage, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And I am so grateful to be able to share this journey with my family.

As we walked back to my family's home where we are staying, under the starlit sky, I couldn't help but feel a deep sense of belonging. Harar, the city of my birth, has welcomed me back with open arms, and I am ready to embrace all that it has to offer. What a day!