Discovering the Hidden Gems of Asmara’s Architecture : The Eritrea

History:

Eritrea is a relatively young country, having gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993. It has a long history of colonization and conflict, with various powers including Italy, Britain, and Ethiopia controlling the territory at different times.

Geography:

Eritrea is located in the Horn of Africa and is bordered by Sudan, Ethiopia, Djibouti, and the Red Sea. It has a diverse landscape that includes highlands, lowlands, and coastal plains.

Politics and Governance:

Eritrea is a one-party state that has been ruled by the People’s Front for Democracy and Justice since independence. The government has been criticized for its lack of democracy, human rights abuses, and restrictions on the media and civil society.

Infrastructure:

Eritrea has a relatively underdeveloped infrastructure, with limited road and rail networks, and unreliable electricity and water supply in many areas.

Economy:

Eritrea’s economy is largely based on agriculture, with mining and fisheries also important sectors. The country has struggled with economic sanctions and a lack of foreign investment, which has led to high unemployment and poverty rates.

Demographics:

Eritrea has a population of around 6 million people, with a diverse range of ethnic and linguistic groups. Tigrinya is the most widely spoken language, and Islam and Christianity are the dominant religions.

Social indicators:

Eritrea has made progress in improving access to education and healthcare, but still faces challenges in reducing poverty and improving gender equality.

Natural resources:

Eritrea has significant mineral deposits, including gold, copper, and zinc. The country also has a rich biodiversity, with unique species of flora and fauna.

Technology:

Eritrea has limited internet access and a low level of technological development.

International relations:

Eritrea has had strained relations with neighboring countries and the international community due to its history of conflict and political repression.

Country code: +291

Leading newspaper:

Problems:

1. Eritrea has experienced occasional terrorist attacks, including an attack on a hotel in Asmara in 2015.
2. Political repression: The Eritrean government has been criticized for its lack of democracy, human rights abuses, and restrictions on the media and civil society.
3. Poverty and unemployment: Eritrea has a high poverty rate, and many people struggle to find employment.
4. Lack of access to basic services: Eritrea has limited access to electricity, clean water, and healthcare services in many areas.
5. Limited freedom of movement: The Eritrean government has strict controls on who is allowed to leave the country, which has led to a large number of refugees fleeing the country.
6. Regional conflict: Eritrea has been involved in various conflicts with neighboring countries, including Ethiopia and Djibouti.
7. Limited international engagement: Eritrea’s international relations have been strained due to its history of conflict and political repression, which has limited its ability to engage with the international community and attract foreign investment.
8. Food insecurity: Eritrea has been affected by drought and food shortages in recent years, which has led to a humanitarian crisis in some areas.
9. Limited internet access: Eritrea has limited access to the internet, which has made it difficult for people to access information and communicate with others outside the country.

Capital: Asmara

Festival and time:

1. The Eritrean New Year, known as Rikotubats, is celebrated on September 11.
2. Independence Day: Celebrated on May 24th, this national holiday marks Eritrea’s independence from Ethiopia in 1993.
3. Martyrs’ Day: Observed on June 20th, this day commemorates those who lost their lives during Eritrea’s struggle for independence.
4. New Year’s Day: Celebrated on January 1st, this day marks the beginning of the Gregorian calendar year.
5. Christmas: Celebrated on January 7th by the Orthodox Christian community, this holiday commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ.
6. Eid al-Fitr: Celebrated at the end of Ramadan, this holiday marks the end of the month-long period of fasting for Muslims.
7. Eid al-Adha: Celebrated by Muslims to commemorate the sacrifice of Abraham, this holiday takes place on the 10th day of the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah.
8. Meskel: Observed on September 27th, this holiday celebrates the finding of the True Cross by Saint Helena in the 4th century.

These festivals are often celebrated with traditional food, music, and dancing.

Specialty:

1. Eritrea is known for its traditional cuisine, which includes injera (a sourdough flatbread) and zigni (a spicy meat stew). The country is also home to unique cultural sites, including the ancient city of Adulis and the ruins of the Italian colonial town of Asmara.
2. Asmara’s architecture: The capital city of Asmara has a unique blend of Italian, Art Deco, and modernist architecture, making it a popular destination for architecture enthusiasts.
3. Dahlak Archipelago: Eritrea’s coast is home to the Dahlak Archipelago, a group of islands known for their pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling.
4. Traditional handicrafts: Eritrea is known for its traditional handicrafts, including basketry, pottery, and weaving, which are still practiced by many artisans today.
5. Eritrean cuisine: Eritrean cuisine is characterized by its spicy stews, injera (a type of flatbread), and unique blend of East African, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean flavors.
6. Bisha Mine: Eritrea is home to the Bisha Mine, a large gold, copper, and zinc mine that has become an important part of the country’s economy.
7. Danakil Depression: Located in the northeastern part of the country, the Danakil Depression is one of the hottest and most inhospitable places on earth, known for its colorful geothermal springs and salt pans.
8. Endemic wildlife: Eritrea is home to several endemic species, including the Dahlak brush-furred rat and the Eritrean greenbul, making it an important destination for wildlife enthusiasts.