Kulubi

Eastern Ethiopia


Twice a year, tens of thousands of pilgrims converge on the little town of Kulubi and its hilltop cathedral, Kulubi Gabriel, built by Ras Mekonen to thank St Gabriel for the victory over the Italians at Adwa. Many people come to express thanks for fulfilment of a wish, and babies feature prominently: up to 1000 infants may be christened during celebrations. If you’re in the area around 26 July and 28 December, it’s an amazing experience.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Eastern Ethiopia attractions

1. Greek Orthodox Church

29.29 MILES

This modern, well-proportioned church is most notable for its two spires and yellow facade.

2. Bete Mikael Church

29.48 MILES

This colourful church, which lies near the Old Palace, is noted for its octagonal shape.

3. Old Palace

29.56 MILES

This large building is the former imperial residence of Haile Selassie. It's not open to the public and difficult to see from outside.

4. Kafira Market

29.57 MILES

With its Babel-like ambience, the enormous Kafira Market, sprawling way beyond its Moorish-style arches, is the most striking of Dire Dawa's markets…

5. Ethiopia-Djibouti Rail Yard

29.59 MILES

Rail fans can clamber through what remains of the once-great Imperial Railway Company of Ethiopia. Ask for Kadra Ali – she can get by in English and will…

6. Juma'a Mosque

29.91 MILES

Juma'a Mosque is the city's largest mosque and a prominent landmark in the Megala neighbourhood.

7. Chattara Market

29.93 MILES

Chat is sold all over town, but the trade at the Chattara Market is so frenetic it deserves a look.

  • placement: superzone
  • path: Destinations/POIs/superzone
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      "url": "ethiopia/eastern-ethiopia/attractions/kulubi/a/poi-sig/1557958/355290",
      "destination": "Eastern-Ethiopia",
      "continent": "Africa",
      "country": "Ethiopia",
      "region": "Eastern-Ethiopia",
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