Ethiopia

Ethiopia, history and populations

Ethiopia is a large country in the Horn of Africa famous for its many traditional tribes, its monuments and archaeological sites, its incredible coffee, unique Orthodox Christian traditions and breathtaking natural landscapes.

Ethiopia is the African country with the largest number of UNESCO world heritage sites; there are 9 sites and they range from religious sites to natural areas.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites include the Simien National Park, the Konso Cultural Landscape and the rock-hewn rock churches of Lalibela.

The Ethiopian territory is varied and includes extensive volcanic plateaus, the desert depression of Danakil, numerous lakes along the rift valley rift, rivers, waterfalls and thermal springs.

In the south of the country, the Omo Valley is a melting pot of tribes who live following ancestral traditions and rituals.

During the Trans-African, in the Omo Valley we will have the opportunity to meet the Mursi whose women use the incredible lip plates, the Hamer with their elaborate hairstyles, the Kara famous for body painting and the Dassanech who show off interesting body modifications.

Of all the aromas and exotic experiences of my stay in Ethiopia, it is incense that I miss the most.

Cathleen Falsani

Addis Ababa the capital of Ethiopia is a rapidly growing city that houses numerous churches and cathedrals and above all the National Museum, where the world’s oldest fossils of a hominid are found: Lucy, the finds were discovered in Ethiopia in 1974 and thinks they are 3.2 million years old.

The rock-hewn churches of Lalibela are probably Ethiopia’s best known attraction, they were excavated during the reign of King Lalibela who wanted to recreate Jerusalem to avoid long and dangerous pilgrimages for his subjects.

The north of the country is also home to numerous ancient monasteries, churches and historical sites such as Gondar with its medieval castles.

During the trip we will not miss the opportunity to attend the traditional coffee preparation ceremony.