Hargeisa History: Exploring the Ancient Somali City
Hargeisa is the capital of the Republic of Somaliland, a self-declared state in the Horn of Africa. It is located in the northwestern part of Somalia, near the border with Ethiopia. The city has a long and storied history, having been the site of many battles and events throughout the centuries.
The city was founded in the early 16th century by the Sultanate of Adal, a powerful Somali state in the region. During this period, Hargeisa was a major trading hub and a center for Islamic learning. The city was also the site of a number of battles between the Adal Sultanate and the Ethiopian Empire.
In the late 19th century, Hargeisa was an important center of the Dervish State, a powerful Somali state in the Horn of Africa. The Dervish State was founded by the Somali religious leader Sayyid Mohammed Abdullah Hassan, who is often referred to as the Mad Mullah. The Dervish State fought against the British, Ethiopians, and Italians for control of the region.
In the early 20th century, the city was occupied by the British, who established a military base there. The British remained in Hargeisa until they withdrew from the region in 1960. The city then became part of the newly-formed Somali Republic.
During the Somali Civil War, which lasted from 1991 to 2006, Hargeisa was the site of fierce fighting between rival clans. The city was heavily damaged during the war, and many of its historic buildings were destroyed.
Since the end of the war, Hargeisa has slowly been rebuilding. The city is now a major commercial center, and it is home to a number of universities, hospitals, and other institutions. In addition, the city is the site of many cultural events, such as the annual Hargeisa International Book Fair.
Hargeisa is a vibrant and bustling city, and it is an important part of Somali history. The city is home to many different ethnic and religious groups, and it is a popular destination for tourists. Whether you are interested in exploring the city’s ancient history or simply looking for a great place to visit, Hargeisa is an excellent choice.