Meet World's Only Country With 13 Months A Year Calendar; It's 7 Years Behind The World - Located In...

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Ethiopia's rich and varied landscapes—ranging from ancient castles to arid deserts and home to rare wildlife—defy the common stereotypes of famine and drought. This vibrant nation, often overlooked as a travel destination, holds countless hidden treasures that make it truly remarkable. Read on to discover why Ethiopia deserves a place on your travel list.

A Journey Through Time and Tradition

Visiting Ethiopia can feel like stepping into another era. Its breathtaking natural beauty, deep-rooted cultural identity, rare species, and captivating historical sites paint a picture far removed from the usual narratives. Despite being underappreciated by many travelers, Ethiopia offers an experience like no other—steeped in tradition, history, and untouched charm.

A Calendar Like No Other

One of the most intriguing features of Ethiopian culture is its unique calendar. Unlike the 12-month Gregorian calendar used in most of the world, Ethiopia follows a 13-month system, which places it about seven to eight years behind the Western calendar. Ethiopians celebrated the start of the new millennium on September 11, 2007.

Rooted in the ancient Coptic calendar and linked to early Christian traditions, the Ethiopian calendar reflects the nation's spiritual and agricultural rhythms. The 13th month, called Pagume, has five days (or six in a leap year) and is often associated with religious festivals and harvest celebrations. Though it differs from the Gregorian system, most Ethiopians navigate both calendars with ease, showcasing a harmonious blend of tradition and modern life.

Does It Complicate Travel?

For visitors, the calendar difference is more of a curiosity than a complication. While it may cause some initial confusion around dates, locals are typically familiar with both systems and are quick to help. In fact, this distinctive approach to time only adds to Ethiopia’s charm, offering travelers a chance to experience a different worldview.

The Cradle of Humanity

Ethiopia’s significance extends far beyond culture and landscape—it's also a key location in the story of human evolution. The Afar region, in particular, has yielded groundbreaking discoveries, including the 3.2-million-year-old fossil known as “Lucy,” one of the oldest and most complete hominid skeletons ever found. These findings support the belief that Ethiopia is one of the original homelands of humankind.

Faith, Food, and Fasting

Ethiopia is predominantly Orthodox Christian, with nearly half the population practicing this ancient faith. Religious observance is deeply woven into daily life—most notably through fasting. Devotees fast up to 200–250 days per year, refraining from all animal products, including meat, dairy, and eggs.

This has given rise to a rich culinary tradition of plant-based dishes, often centered around spicy stews, legumes, and vegetables. Restaurants commonly offer fasting-friendly menus, making it easy for vegetarians and vegans to enjoy the local cuisine year-round. Fasting days are observed every Wednesday and Friday, as well as during numerous religious holidays throughout the year.

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