A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Dessie: The Hidden Gem of Ethiopia

Introduction

Dessie, also known as Dessye, is a city located in northeastern Ethiopia. It is the capital of the South Wollo administrative zone, in the Amhara region. Despite not being as well-known as other Ethiopian cities like Addis Ababa or Lalibela, Dessie offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it a fascinating tourist destination.

History and Culture

Dessie has a rich history that dates back several centuries. It was founded in the 19th century and has been an important center of trade and education in Ethiopia. The city is home to several historic churches, such as St. George's Church and St. Mary's Church, which are famous for their stunning murals and ancient manuscripts.

Tourist Attractions

In addition to its churches, Dessie has several other tourist attractions. The Dessie Museum is a must-visit for history lovers, as it houses a wide range of artifacts that showcase the rich history and culture of the region. For those interested in nature, the Simien National Park, which is a short drive from the city, offers stunning views of mountains, valleys, and a wide variety of wildlife.

Local Cuisine

A visit to Dessie would not be complete without trying the delicious Ethiopian cuisine. Local restaurants serve a variety of traditional dishes, such as injera (a fermented flatbread) and doro wat (a spicy chicken stew). Traditional drinks like tej, a honey wine, and Ethiopian coffee, which is famous worldwide, can also be tasted.

Travel Tips

When planning a trip to Dessie, it's important to note that the city is located at an altitude of over 2,400 meters, so it can get cold, especially at night. Warm clothing is recommended. Also, although Amharic is the main language in Dessie, English is commonly spoken in hotels and restaurants.

Conclusion

In summary, Dessie is a hidden gem of Ethiopia that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or nature, Dessie has something for everyone.

Dessie's Gastronomic Products

• Injera

  Injera is a fermented flatbread that is a staple food in the Ethiopian diet. It is made with teff flour, an ancient grain that is native to Ethiopia. Injera has a slightly sour taste and a spongy texture, and is used to pick up other foods, such as stews and salads.

• Doro Wat

  Doro Wat is a spicy chicken stew that is one of the most popular dishes in Ethiopia. It is made with chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, berbere (an Ethiopian spice blend) and niter kibbeh butter (a clarified butter flavored with spices). Doro Wat is traditionally served with injera.

• Kitfo

  Kitfo is a raw meat dish that is very popular in Ethiopia. It is made with very finely chopped beef, which is mixed with niter kibbeh butter and mitmita (a blend of spicy spices). Kitfo can be served raw, slightly cooked or fully cooked, and is often eaten with injera and cottage cheese.

• Teff

  Teff is an ancient grain that is native to Ethiopia and is a staple food in the Ethiopian diet. It is rich in protein, fiber and minerals, and is gluten-free. Teff is used to make a variety of foods, including bread, cookies, cakes and beer.

Sporting Activities in Dessie, Ethiopia

Athletics

Ethiopia is famous for its excellence in long-distance athletics. In Dessie, you can join the local runners for a morning run or even participate in one of the many races that are organized throughout the year.

Hiking and Trekking

Dessie is surrounded by stunning mountains and offers many opportunities for hiking and trekking. You can explore the Simien Mountains, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the Bale Mountains National Park.

Cycling

Cycling is a popular activity in Ethiopia and Dessie is no exception. You can rent a bike and explore the city and its surroundings, or even join one of the many cycling races that are held throughout the year.

Swimming

Although Dessie is inland, there are several pools in the city where you can swim. Many hotels also have their own pools, so there are always opportunities to take a dip.

Places near Dessie

If you are in Dessie and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Lalibela, Ethiopia, is famous for its 12th-century monolithic churches, a must-see destination for history lovers. Its traditional cuisine, with dishes like injera and doro wat, offers a unique and unforgettable culinary experience.

Gondar, Ethiopia, is a historical gem, famous for its medieval castles and painted churches. Visitors can enjoy the rich Ethiopian cuisine, with dishes like Doro Wat and Injera, and try the traditional Ethiopian coffee.

Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, is a stunning tourist destination, known for its historical monasteries and Lake Tana. Visitors can enjoy traditional Ethiopian cuisine, with dishes such as injera and doro wat, at the numerous local restaurants.