population: 0.33 million
extension: 47.27 square kilometers
If you're in Mekele and interested in visiting museums, you may want to check out the following:
1. Ayder Cultural Museum: Located in the heart of Mekele, this museum showcases Tigray's rich culture and history.
2. Wukro Chirkos Museum: Located about 45 minutes' drive from Mekele, this museum is housed in an ancient church and displays religious artifacts and manuscripts.
3. Museum of the Martyrs: Located in Adigrat, about 2 hours' drive from Mekele, this museum commemorates the Ethiopian martyrs who fought against Italian occupation.
Similar museums to check out include the National Museum of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa, which houses many archaeological treasures, and the Debre Berhan Selassie Church Museum in Gondar, which contains religious art and artifacts.
There are many delicious and traditional dishes to try in Mekele, Ethiopia. Some of the most recommended and popular dishes among locals include:
1. Tsebhi Siga: This is a spicy beef stew that is usually served with injera, a sourdough flatbread made from teff flour.
2. Tibs: A dish of sautéed meat (usually beef or lamb) seasoned with spices, onions, and peppers. It is often served with injera or bread.
3. Shiro: A thick stew made from ground chickpeas or lentils, mixed with spices and sometimes meat. It's often eaten as a vegetarian option and served with injera.
4. Kitfo: A dish made from raw minced beef mixed with spices and herbs. It's often served with injera and has a spicy kick to it.
5. Injera: Although not a dish itself, injera is a staple food in Ethiopia and is eaten with almost every meal. It's a sourdough flatbread made from teff flour and is used to scoop up stews and other dishes.
These are just a few examples of the delicious dishes you can try in Mekele, but there are many more to discover!
Here are some fun activities that local people like in Mekele:
1. Visit the markets: The Mekele markets are bustling with activity and a great place to experience the local culture. The Saturday Market is especially popular, where you can find a variety of goods such as spices, textiles, jewelry, and livestock.
2. Explore historical sites: Mekele has many historical sites, including the Palace of Yohannes IV, which was built in the 19th century and served as the royal residence for the Ethiopian emperor. Another historical site is the Adihaqi underground church, which is carved out of solid rock.
3. Attend cultural events: Mekele is home to many cultural events throughout the year, such as the Tigray Festival, which celebrates the region's culture through music, dance, and food. Other cultural events include weddings, religious festivals, and traditional ceremonies.
4. Hiking and outdoor activities: Mekele is surrounded by beautiful mountains and natural scenery, making it an ideal location for hiking and outdoor activities. Popular hiking destinations include the Gheralta Mountains and the Abuna Yemata Guh Church.
5. Taste local cuisine: Mekele is known for its delicious food, including injera (a type of sourdough bread), tsebhi (stew made with meat and vegetables), and shiro (a spicy chickpea dish). You can visit local restaurants or try street food vendors to taste these delicious dishes.