Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
private collection of weaponry, coins, jewellery, household tools and cultural dress. The
owner will probably offer to show you his book-restoration workshop upstairs.
STREET
Mekina Girgir
Leading southeast from Feres Magala, this narrow, atmospheric street is jam-packed with
tailors' workshops, which is how it came to be called 'Sewing Machine Sound Street'.
Gidir Magala
At the end of Mekina Girgir you'll stumble upon the arcades of the Gidir Magala, the
main market (previously known as the Muslim market) and the city's biggest butchery.
Watch how the locals hide their meat purchases from the black kites that fearlessly swoop
down trying to steal it.
MARKET
Ras Makonnen's Palace
Don't expect a fairy-tale castle. This late-19th-century 'palace' is a sharp-edged, charm-
less building currently under renovation. During construction, and surely after it as well,
you can climb to the top floor and soak up the views. What is called
Queen Taitu's
a handicraft centre where the craft makers will work on-site is supposed to open.
PALACE
Harar National Museum
(admission Birr20; 8am-noon & 2-5pm Mon-Fri, 8am-noon Sat & Sun)
This modest
museum used to be housed in Ras Makonnen's Palace, and may again after restoration
work is finished. Much of the collection is stuff you've already seen inside a traditional
Harari home, but the jewellery, clothing and weapons make it worth a stop.
MUSEUM
CHURCH
St Mary Catholic Church
One of just two churches in Old Harar, St Mary Catholic Church is a haven of peace and a
good spot if you need to unwind. It's a French Catholic mission dating from 1889. The
carved wooden door is particularly attractive.
