Desē, Ethiopia
Region: Amhara
Geographic Coordinates: 11.133300, 39.633300
Temperature Range: 10.0°C to 25.0°C (50°F to 77°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 187900
Language: Amharic
Desē is a stunning city situated in the northeastern part of Ethiopia. It acts as the capital of the Amhara region and has a population exceeding 250, 000 residents. The city rests on a plateau at an altitude of 2, 470 meters above sea level, Making it one of Africa’s highest cities. One of Desē’s most notable features is its vibrant marketplaces that offer an array of colorful fabrics, Spices, Traditional Ethiopian crafts like pottery and basket weaving.
Visitors can also indulge in fresh fruits and vegetables or local delicacies such as injera (a sourdough flatbread), Kitfo (raw minced beef), And tibs (grilled meat). The city boasts several historical sites that showcase its rich cultural heritage. One such site is the Fasil Ghebbi fortress complex built by Emperor Fasilides in the 17th century. This complex includes castles, Churches, And other buildings showcasing unique Ethiopian architecture.
Desē also has several museums where visitors can learn more about Ethiopia’s history and culture with exhibits featuring traditional dress, Music instruments weaponry among others; one famous museum is Ethnographic Museum at Addis Ababa University’s Institute of Ethiopian Studies. For nature lovers visiting Desē there are plenty to explore too! Visitors can hike through nearby mountains or enjoy scenic drives through lush green landscapes dotted with waterfalls like Tis Abay waterfall on Blue Nile River which offers breathtaking views for tourists who visit this place.
yet importantly Desē has a thriving nightlife scene that caters to both locals and tourists alike with various bars offering live music performances featuring traditional Ethiopian genres such as Tigrigna or Amharic music. In conclusion; whether you’re interested in history or culture or simply want to explore stunning natural landscapes, Desē has something for everyone. Its vibrant markets, Historical sites museums , And natural wonders make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Ethiopia.
- Fasil Ghebbi (Royal Enclosure)
- Debre Birhan Selassie Church
- Blue Nile Falls
- Simien Mountains National Park
- Lake Tana Monasteries
- Gondar Castle
- Awra Amba Community
- Timkat Festival (Celebration of Epiphany)
- Bahir Dar Market
- Dungur Palace (Palace of the Queen of Sheba)
- The agricultural sector is particularly important, with the city’s fertile soil allowing for the production of various crops.
- The textile industry is also on the rise, producing cotton fabrics and garments.
- Construction companies are involved in building both residential and commercial properties.
- The retail sector offers a variety of products including clothing, electronics, and household items.
- Education is another significant sector in Desē, with several universities and colleges providing education to students from across Ethiopia.
- Healthcare services are also available through numerous hospitals and clinics serving local residents as well as those from neighboring towns.
- Tourism is an essential aspect of Desē’s economy due to its rich cultural heritage that includes historical sites such as Fasil Ghebbi castle complex which attracts tourists from all over the world.
- Service sector businesses such as banking providers operate within the city limits.
- Overall, Desē has a thriving economy with diverse industries that provide employment opportunities for its residents while attracting visitors from around Ethiopia and beyond.
- The Battle of Adwa: In 1896, Ethiopian forces led by Emperor Menelik II defeated Italian invaders in the Battle of Adwa near Desē. This victory helped to preserve Ethiopia’s independence and is considered a significant event in African history.
- Ras Desta Damtew: Ras Desta was an Ethiopian prince who played a key role in the resistance against Italian occupation during World War II. He was captured by the Italians and executed in 1937.
- Dejazmach Balcha Safo: Balcha Safo was an important figure during Ethiopia’s struggle for independence from Italy. He served as governor of Wollo province, which includes Desē.
- Saint Tekle Haymanot: Tekle Haymanot is one of Ethiopia’s most revered saints, known for his asceticism and miracles performed during his lifetime in the 13th century. His tomb is located near Desē.
- The Blue Nile Falls: Located about 30 kilometers from Desē, the Blue Nile Falls (also known as Tis Abay) are one of Ethiopia’s most impressive natural wonders.
- The Wollo Famine: In the mid-1970s, Wollo province (including Desē) experienced a devastating famine that killed thousands of people due to drought and government mismanagement.
- Emperor Haile Selassie I: Although not directly associated with Desē, Haile Selassie I was an important figure in Ethiopian history who ruled from 1930 until he was deposed in 1974.
- Yohannes IV: Yohannes IV was emperor of Ethiopia from 1872 until his death at the Battle of Metemma in 1889; he played an important role in modernizing Ethiopia and resisting European colonialism.
- The Desē Mariam Church: This church, located in the center of Desē, is one of Ethiopia’s most important religious sites and a popular pilgrimage destination. It is dedicated to Saint Mary and was built in the 15th century.
- The Wollo University: Established in 2007, the Wollo University is one of Ethiopia’s newest universities and has become an important center for higher education in the region.
- Desē Museum
- Negash Mosque
- Tigray Rock Hewn Churches (located near Desē)
- Emperor Yohannes IV Palace Museum
- Ras Mekonnen Palace Museum
- St. George’s Church (Kuha)
- Wukro Chirkos Church (located near Desē)
- Mariam Korkor Church (located near Desē)
- Kefira Ruins
- Bete Medhane Alem Monastery
- Timkat is a major religious festival celebrated in January to mark the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River.
- Meskel is celebrated on September 27th and commemorates the finding of the True Cross by Saint Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine.
- Gena (Ethiopian Christmas) occurs on January 7th and celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.
- Fichee-Chambalaalla is a New Year celebration for Sidama people that takes place in July or August.
- Ashenda is held in August or September and celebrates young girls and women with traditional dances and songs.
- Irreecha is an Oromo thanksgiving festival celebrated in October to mark the end of rainy season and beginning of harvest season.
- Kulubi Gabriel Festival takes place annually at Kulubi Gabriel Church near Dire Dawa during Easter time, serving as a significant pilgrimage site for Ethiopian Orthodox Christians.
- The Addis Ababa International Film Festival showcases local and international films every December in Addis Ababa.
Note: Desē (also known as Dessie or Dessye) is located in Amhara Region, so some festivals mentioned above may not be specific to Desē but are celebrated throughout Ethiopia including Amhara Region where Desē is located.
- Tibs – a traditional Ethiopian dish made with grilled meat served with injera, a sourdough flatbread.
- Kitfo – a raw minced beef dish mixed with spices and served with injera.
- Doro Wat – a spicy chicken stew served with injera.
- Shiro – a thick stew made from ground chickpeas or lentils.
- Injera – the staple bread of Ethiopia, which is sourdough flatbread made from teff flour.
- Yohannes Kitfo House – a popular restaurant in Desē that serves traditional Ethiopian dishes like kitfo and tibs.
- Habesha Restaurant & Bar – another popular restaurant that offers authentic Ethiopian food and drinks.
- Kaleb Restaurant & Cafe – A cozy cafe serving traditional dishes along with coffee and tea varieties.
- Tana Hotel- A luxurious hotel that has an onsite restaurant offering international cuisine as well as local delicacies.
- Addis Alem Park – a spacious park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths.
- Gara Muleta Park – a beautiful park with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, perfect for hiking and picnicking.
- Kebelle 01 Park – a small but well-maintained park with lush greenery and benches for relaxation.
- Desē Stadium – a popular venue for sports events such as soccer matches and track & field competitions.
- Lake Hayq Resort – an idyllic lakeside resort offering water sports activities like boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Abuna Yemata Guh Church – an ancient rock-hewn church that requires a challenging hike to reach but rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the valley below.
- Sina Maryam Monastery – another historic monastery located on top of a hill overlooking Desē city, accessible by hiking or car ride.
- Bale Mountains National Park – located just outside of Desē city limits, this national park offers stunning mountain scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities (including the Ethiopian wolf), camping facilities, and trekking trails through diverse ecosystems ranging from afro-alpine to tropical rainforest habitats.
