Rediscovering Roots: A Family Journey to Harar

Tranquility and Tradition in Harar

Today was a day of gentle exploration and cultural immersion in my beloved Harar. It felt wonderful to share the beauty and history of this city with Hans-Peter and Lila, showing them places that hold so many memories for me. We embraced the slower pace, allowing ourselves to be swept up in the charm of gardens, historical landmarks, and the vibrant energy of local shops.

Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at Fasting Lunch House. It’s a modest place, but it’s a local favorite for a reason. The vegetarian dishes were flavorful and satisfying, a perfect start to our day. I remember coming here often as a young girl with my own mother, and it felt special to continue that tradition with Lila.

After breakfast, we strolled through Bekri's Garden. This garden is an oasis of calm in the middle of the city. The lush greenery and vibrant flowers were a feast for the eyes, and the tranquil atmosphere was a balm for the soul. Lila was particularly enchanted, running along the well-maintained pathways, pointing out the different flowers, and chasing butterflies. Hans-Peter and I enjoyed watching her, reminiscing about the many afternoons I spent in similar gardens as a child. It's a place where you can truly escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature.


Explore the serene beauty of Bekri's Garden in Harar, Ethiopia, a perfect oasis for relaxation and nature lovers.

It's a profound experience to revisit the places of my past and share them with my family, weaving our stories into the rich tapestry of Harar's history.

Next on our itinerary was the Ras Makonnen Statue. This statue holds a significant place in Harar's history, commemorating Ras Makonnen, a prominent military leader and the father of Emperor Haile Selassie I. I explained to Lila how Ras Makonnen was not only a cousin of Emperor Menelik II, but also served as the first ruler of Harar after the city's occupation. The statue itself, with its rather Italian-looking equestrian design, was crafted by the renowned Ethiopian artist Afewerk Tekle in collaboration with Croatian sculptors. It's a powerful symbol of Ethiopian heritage and resilience. Sadly, I learned that the original statue was destroyed in 2020, which is a great loss for the city.


Explore the Ras Makonnen Statue in Harar, a significant tribute to Ethiopia's rich heritage and history, surrounded by vibrant local culture.

For lunch, we ventured to HADI Cafe and Restaurant. This place is a gem, known for its authentic Ethiopian cuisine and warm hospitality. We indulged in a variety of traditional dishes, including injera with flavorful stews. Lila, surprisingly, enjoyed the injera, tearing off pieces and using them to scoop up the various wots. The spices and aromas transported me back to my childhood, reminding me of family gatherings and the comforting flavors of home. Hans-Peter, ever the adventurous one, tried the local beer and declared it a worthy accompaniment to the meal. It was more than just a meal; it was an immersion into the heart of Harar's culinary traditions.


Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at HADI Cafe and Restaurant in Harar – a delightful culinary journey awaits you.

In the afternoon, I was eager to take Lila and Hans-Peter to Mana Uffata Aadaa Haadha Caayaa, a shop specializing in traditional Ethiopian clothing. I wanted Lila to have a piece of her heritage to take back to Munich, something tangible to remind her of this journey. The shop was a riot of colors and textures, filled with beautiful dresses, intricately embroidered shawls, and handcrafted jewelry. Lila was immediately drawn to a vibrant dress with bold patterns, and after a bit of persuasion, she agreed to try it on. She looked absolutely radiant, a perfect blend of Ethiopian and German heritage. We also picked up a few scarves for my sisters back in Munich, knowing they would appreciate the authentic craftsmanship.


Explore the rich tapestry of Ethiopian fashion at Mana Uffata Aadaa Haadha Caayaa in Harar, where tradition meets contemporary style.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Kare awud bar & restaurant for dinner. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere, filled with locals and tourists alike. We ordered a variety of dishes, eager to sample more of Harar's culinary offerings. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration, surrounded by good food and good company. I especially enjoyed the savory stews and the aromatic injera, savoring each bite and feeling grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family.


Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Kare Awud Bar & Restaurant in Harar - a culinary gem showcasing local flavors and warm hospitality.

Before heading back to our relatives' home, we took a moment to reflect on the day. Harar had once again captivated us with its beauty, history, and warmth. It felt incredibly special to share these experiences with Hans-Peter and Lila, creating memories that we would cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Amir Talha Square and Haroo Haramayaa. I am particularly excited about Haroo Haramayaa, as I have heard it is a beautiful lake surrounded by lush greenery. Lila is already asking if we can go boating, and I am looking forward to spending another day exploring the wonders of Harar with my family. I am also keen to check out Mulu Pub in the evening for a taste of local nightlife.

This trip is more than just a vacation; it's a journey of rediscovery, a chance to reconnect with my roots, and an opportunity to create lasting memories with my family. Harar, with its vibrant culture and rich history, continues to enchant me, and I am grateful for every moment spent in this magical city.

And as I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share my experiences with you. I hope that my words have inspired you to explore the world, to embrace new cultures, and to create your own unforgettable memories. Perhaps one day, you too will find yourself wandering the ancient streets of Harar, captivated by its beauty and warmth. Until then, I will continue to share my journey with you, one blog post at a time.

The strong earthquake that hit Awash today at 5:55 pm, thankfully, didn't affect us here in Harar. We felt nothing, and I'm grateful that everyone is safe. It's a reminder of how unpredictable life can be, and how important it is to cherish every moment.

As the moon rises over Harar, casting a silvery glow on the ancient walls, I am filled with a sense of peace and contentment. Today was a good day, a day of exploration, connection, and cultural immersion. And as I drift off to sleep, I dream of the adventures that await us tomorrow, eager to continue our journey through this enchanting city. Harar, my birthplace, my heart, my home.