Alternative Pilgrimage Destination for Ethiopians

(Nov 10, 2011, PRI's The World)--Millions of Muslims are in Saudi Arabia right now, participating in the annual pilgrimage known as the Hajj. You probably already know that the main destination for the Hajj is the holy city of Mecca.

But some Muslims believe there are other locations that fulfill the Koran’s requirements.

For today’s Geo Quiz we’re traveling to a remote shrine in eastern Ethiopia where pilgrims who can’t afford the trip to Mecca have gathered to worship.

It’s the final resting place of a twelfth century holy man. In recent years more conservative Muslims have destroyed similar tombs in the area.

But this shrine, located on the edge of the massive Bale mountain range, recently got a face lift, with the help of the US government. Where are Ethiopian pilgrims worshiping right now?

The Sheikh Nur Hussein Shrine in eastern Ethiopia is the answer to our GEO Quiz today. Reporter Megan Verlee recently visited the shrine to learn why it’s so controversial for some Muslims. Red more from PRI's The World »

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