Sherif Harar City Museum (Ras Tafari's House)
Sherif Harar City Museum
The private museum of local collector Abdullah Sherif, displaying handwritten Qur'ans, coins, weapons and traditional Harari costumes and objects.
Founded by local collector Abdullah Sherif, the museum displays historical artifacts of Harar that he gathered over decades. They include coins minted in the Emirate era, handwritten Qur'ans and Arabic manuscripts, traditional musical instruments, weapons, silver jewelry, woven baskets and costumes. It is the most concentrated place to learn about Harari culture. The museum is housed in the Ras Tafari House in the old town, a two-story mansion built by Indian craftsmen with a carved wooden porch. Legend says Emperor Haile Selassie, originally named Ras Tafari, lived here in his youth. Sherif himself often gives tours in person. Admission is about 100 birr. Opening hours are not fixed, so ask a guide to contact the museum in advance.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–12:00, 14:00–17:30 (irregular)
Nearby sights
- Medhane Alem Cathedral & Feres Megala
- Tomb of Emir Nur
- Arthur Rimbaud House
- Harar Jugol
- Gidir Magala & Old Town Markets
- Harar Gate
- Harar Hyena Feeding
- Harar Brewery