Ethiopia is a veritable mosaic of peoples. There are over 83 ethnic groups, each speaking it's own language, several of which have not yet been classified by linguists. Although the original physical differences between the major ethnic groups have been blurred by centuries, if not millennia, of intermarriage, there remain many who are distinct and unique. There are a bounty of fascinating costumes, colorful ceremonies and celebrations, arts, crafts, music and dance that distinguish Ethiopia to a diminutive Africa.'

CULTURE

The diversity of people living in Ethiopia is enormous: close to 90 million people divided in over 80 ethnic groups, together speaking over 200 dialects. The relative isolation of the country, never colonized by a foreign power, left a very distinctive identity. Ethiopia is different in every corner!

When Ethiopia is presented as a cultural destination it is usually about the tribes in the south of the country. Although we follow this reasoning somehow, it does injustice to the rest of the country and to the people in the south who are so much more than just a 'cultural attraction'.

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LANGUAGE

Four major linguistic groups are present in Ethiopia.

People speaking Semitic,Cushitic, Nilotic and Omotic languages. The last group of languages only spoken in Ethiopia in the Omo Valley.

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RELIGION

Ethiopia is a country where religions meet. Christianity is the biggest religion with most people (over 50% of the populaion) following the very ownEthiopian Orthodox Church. Around 34% of the population is Muslim and in the south many people follow traditional beliefs.

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FOOD AND DRINKS

The Ethiopian food is very typical. The staple food is 'enjera' a huge, bit sour tasting, pancake with a spongy structure. It is made from teff a grain unique for the highlands of Ethiopia. The dish is served with al kind of 'wot': meat or vegetable stews. As there are many fasting days on the Ethiopian calendar, it is a perfect country for vegetarians. And even for vegans as fasting means not to take any animal product, including eggs and dairy products. The often spicy food is washed down with the local beer 'tella' and honey wine 'tedj'

 

COFFEE CEREMONY

Sooner rather than later you will be invited for a coffee ceremony. Coffee originated from the Kaffa region in western Ethiopia. Today it is a big contributor to the economy. Ethiopians are proud coffee consumers, it takes some time to prepare though. The fresh beans are washed and roasted over an charcoal fire. While grinding the beans in a mortar, water is boiled and a first cup of coffee (usually taken with a lot of sugar) is prepared. While enjoying the first serving a second round is prepared by adding extra water in the coffee pot. This is repeated and the ceremony is finished with a third serving which is called 'beraka' (luck) and it is polite to take all three servings. During the ceremony incense is burnt and popcorn and 'kolo', roasted barley, are served as a biting. The floor is covered with fresh grass as a sign of hospitality.

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MUSIC AND DANCE

The listing of the unique culture of Ethiopia is endless. Music and dance is also very distinctive and differs from region to region. Instruments likemasinko, krar and begena are little known outside Ethiopia. The cultural restaurants in Addis Ababa give a good impression of the music from all over the country, meanwhile you enjoy a wide selection of the delicious Ethiopian food.