1. Uncolonized 

Ethiopia is one of the few African countries that was never colonized by European powers. It successfully resisted Italian colonization, winning the famous Battle of Adwa in 1896. This unique history has shaped its cultural identity and political landscape.

Ethiopia also has the second highest population among African countries, with 129.7 million people. (UNPF)

2. Origin of coffee

Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee. Coffee is believed to have originated in the Kaffa region of Ethiopia. According to legend, a goat herder named Kaldi discovered coffee in the 9th century after noticing his goats becoming energetic after eating coffee berries. The country remains a major coffee producer and exporter, renowned for its high-quality beans.

3. Unique calendar 

Ethiopia follows its own calendar which has 13 months instead of 12. The additional month is called "Pagume" and comes between September and October. The 12 months have 30 days each but Pagume has five days, or six days after every four years. It is about seven to eight years behind the Gregorian calendar, meaning Ethiopia is currently in 2017. New year starts on September 11.

4. Highest Capital City in Africa 

Ethiopia’s capital Addis is the highest capital city in Africa, at 2,355 metres above sea level. Its elevation contributes to its pleasant climate and unique atmosphere.

Ethiopia is also home to some of the highest mountains in Africa including Mount Ras Dashen. This mountainous terrain has influenced its diverse ecosystems and cultural traditions.

The Great Rift Valley also runs through Ethiopia which is home to stunning landscapes, wildlife, and several lakes.

5. Rastafarianism

Ethiopia holds significant spiritual importance for the Rastafarian movement. Many Rastafarians believe that Ethiopia is the promised land and that Emperor Haile Selassie I was the messianic figure.

6. Ancient Kingdom of Aksum 

Ethiopia was home to the ancient Kingdom of Aksum, one of the great civilizations of the ancient world that arose during the first century C.E. It is known for its wealth, massive stone obelisks and as a major trade hub.

Ethiopia is also one of the oldest nations in the world, with human habitation dating back millions of years. It is considered the cradle of humankind, with fossil evidence of early human ancestors like "Lucy" discovered there.

7. Ark of the Covenant 

Ethiopia adopted Christianity in the 4th century AD, making it one of the oldest Christian nations in the world. According to Ethiopian Orthodox Christian tradition, the Ark of the Covenant, a sacred religious artifact mentioned in the Bible, is housed in the Church of Our Lady of Zion in Aksum. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church plays a significant role in the country's culture.

8. Diverse Languages

Ethiopia is home to over 80 languages and 200 dialects, making it one of the most linguistically diverse countries in Africa. The official languages are Amharic, Afar, Oromo, Somali, and Tigrinya. This diversity reflects the country's rich cultural heritage.

9. Cuisine

Ethiopian food is known for its rich, spicy flavors, with dishes like injera (a sourdough flatbread) and doro wat (spicy chicken stew) being staples.

10. A Nation of Runners

Ethiopia is renowned for its world-class runners who have dominated the long-distance running scene for decades. The country's high altitude and challenging terrain have contributed to the development of its running talent.