Mendefera, Eritrea
Museums
Great! If you're in Mendefera, Eritrea and interested in visiting museums, I would suggest checking out the National Museum of Eritrea located in Asmara. It is about a 2-hour drive from Mendefera and showcases the country's rich history, culture, and traditions through its exhibits. Additionally, you may also want to visit the Asmara Art Deco District, which features beautiful buildings built during the Italian colonization of Eritrea, and the city's various markets where you can find traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
Food
In Mendefera, some of the most recommended and popular local dishes are:
1. Zigni: a spicy stew made with beef or lamb, tomatoes, onions, and berbere spice.
2. Injera: a sourdough flatbread that is a staple in Eritrean cuisine. It is often served with various stews and curries.
3. Tsebhi derho: a chicken stew cooked with onions, tomatoes, and various spices.
4. Ful: a dish made from slow-cooked fava beans and seasoned with spices and herbs.
5. Tibs: grilled or sautéed meat (beef, lamb, or goat) cooked with onions, peppers, and spices.
6. Shiro: a thick stew made from ground chickpeas, lentils, or broad beans and seasoned with spices and herbs.
7. Buna: traditional Eritrean coffee that is roasted and brewed in a special pot called a jebena.
These dishes are all delicious and widely enjoyed by locals in Mendefera.
Activities
Mendefera is a rural town in Eritrea, and while it may not have as many tourist attractions compared to other cities, there are still some fun activities that locals enjoy. Here are a few:
1. Visit the weekly market: Mendefera has a local market that takes place every Monday and Thursday, where you can find fresh produce, clothes, and spices.
2. Attend a cultural festival: If you happen to be in Mendefera during one of the many cultural festivals that take place throughout the year, consider attending. You'll get a chance to see traditional dances, sample local food, and meet new people.
3. Explore the surrounding countryside: Mendefera is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills and valleys, so consider taking a hike or hiring a guide who can show you around.
4. Volunteer with a local organization: There are several community-based organizations in Mendefera that welcome volunteers, especially those interested in education or health care. You could teach English or help with public health campaigns.
5. Play sports: Local people in Mendefera love to play sports like soccer, volleyball, and basketball. You might consider joining a local team or just playing pickup games with kids in the park.
