Harar is one of the four holy cities of Islam and the legendary place where French poet Arthur Rimbaud lived in Africa. Rimbaud's House & Museum is hidden deep in the streets of this thousand-year-old city, attracting countless literature lovers and travelers to explore.
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Rimbaud's House & Museum is located in the core area of the old town of Harar, just a few steps away from the ancient city wall. The ticket price is 100 Ethiopian Birr, and students can enjoy a half-price discount with valid ID. The museum is open from 9 am to 5 pm and is closed every Monday for maintenance.
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Architectural appearance: Rimbaud's House is a typical traditional Harar residence, with a yellowish-brown exterior wall and wooden doors and windows, full of historical vicissitudes. In the early morning or evening, the sun shines obliquely on the building, forming a unique light and shadow effect, which is very suitable for shooting.
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Corner of the courtyard: There is an old tree with lush branches and leaves in the courtyard, and a wooden bench is placed under the tree. Taking pictures here, you can feel the atmosphere of Rimbaud resting and thinking here.
Rimbaud's desk: The museum retains the desk used by Rimbaud in the past, on which his manuscripts, books and some personal belongings are placed. You can use a low angle when shooting to highlight the details and atmosphere of the desk.
In front of the portrait: There is a portrait of Rimbaud hanging in the museum. The poet in the painting has deep eyes and is full of melancholy. Standing in front of the portrait and taking pictures, it seems that you can have a dialogue across time and space with this great poet.
Panorama of the ancient city: From a high place near the museum, you can overlook the panoramic view of the ancient city of Harar. The densely packed earthy yellow buildings, winding streets and ancient city walls form a unique picture, which is an excellent location for photographing the scenery of the ancient city.
Coffee trade: During his time in Harar, Rimbaud not only wrote poetry, but also engaged in coffee trade. He once went deep into the local coffee plantations to learn about the planting and processing of coffee beans, and incorporated these experiences into his works. Harar's coffee is famous for its unique flavor, and you can still taste the coffee that Rimbaud drank in the past.
Interaction with local culture: During his life in Harar, Rimbaud established a deep friendship with local Sufi believers. He often participated in Sufi religious ceremonies and activities and was influenced by Sufism. This influence is reflected in his later works.
Mysterious manuscripts: The museum houses some of Rimbaud's manuscripts, some of which have not yet been fully deciphered. These manuscripts record his thinking and creative process during his time in Harar, and are of great value for studying Rimbaud's literary thoughts.
Soundwalk Collective's music project: In 2013, Soundwalk Collective recorded an album called "Mummer Love" in Harar, which incorporates Rimbaud's poetry and local Sufi music. One of the recording locations for this album is Rimbaud's former residence, adding new cultural connotations to this ancient building.
History of the building: The Rimbaud House was originally the residence of a local merchant, and was later rented by Rimbaud. After Rimbaud left, the building changed hands many times and underwent many repairs and reconstructions. Today, it has become one of the important cultural heritages of Harar.
Harar Ancient City Wall: Harar Ancient City Wall is one of the best-preserved ancient city walls in Africa, built in the 16th century. Walking along the city wall, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the ancient city and feel the heavy sense of history.
Hyena feeding activity: Harar is famous for the "Hyena City". Every night, local "Hyena People" feed wild hyenas outside the ancient city wall. This is a very unique experience that allows you to observe these mysterious animals up close.
Coffee ceremony: Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, and Harar's coffee ceremony is even more unique. In local cafes or homes, you can experience the whole process from coffee bean roasting, grinding to brewing, and taste authentic Harar coffee.
Traditional Market: Harar's traditional market is a good place to learn about local culture and life. Here, you can buy various handicrafts, spices, textiles and other specialty goods, and taste local food.
Rimbaud's House & Museum is not only a museum that displays Rimbaud's life and works, but also a window to understand Harar's history and culture. Here, you can feel the poet's source of inspiration and appreciate the unique charm of the ancient city. If you have the opportunity to come to Ethiopia, don't miss this legendary building.
