Mythical Roads Season 5 Episode 4 The Corn of Africa

The episode The Corn of Africa from season 5 of Mythical Roads takes us on a journey through the varied landscapes of Ethiopia. As the team embarks on this adventure, they discover that Ethiopia is more than just a desert nation; it is a land of diverse communities, cultures, and climates.

The show starts with a visit to the ancient city of Axum, an important trading point on the ancient Silk Road. Once the center of an empire, this city has long been a significant part of Ethiopia's history, and the team explores the ancient ruins and investigates the many myths and legends surrounding the city.

From Axum, we move on to explore Ethiopia's agricultural heartland. Known for its rich soils and abundant crops, the team discovers why Ethiopia is known as the "Corn of Africa." The team visits local farms and meets with farmers, learning about their traditional farming techniques and how they produce some of the world's best coffee. We also get a glimpse of the vibrant and colorful markets, where farmers bring their goods to be sold.

The landscape transforms as we journey towards the Danakil Depression, one of the hottest and most inhospitable places on Earth. The team faces the challenge of crossing this harsh terrain, which is home to some of the most ancient and unique geological features on Earth, including acid lakes and sulfur springs.

In the next segment of the show, the team explores Lalibela, Ethiopia's "New Jerusalem," where they investigate the many myths and legends surrounding the ancient churches hewn from solid rock. They meet with local people to learn more about the legends surrounding these churches, which are said to have been miraculously created by angels in one night.

We also learn about the diverse communities living in Ethiopia's remote corners, including the Mursi tribe living deep in the Omo Valley, whose women wear elaborate lip plates as a sign of beauty. The team explores their culture and traditions, meeting with the tribe's elders and discovering their unique way of life.

The team concludes their journey in Harar, a city surrounded by fortified walls and known for its unique architecture and cultural traditions. We learn about Harar's significance as a major Islamic center throughout history and are introduced to the local custom of feeding wild hyenas at night.

In The Corn of Africa, Mythical Roads has truly showcased the diverse cultures and landscapes of Ethiopia. From ancient ruins to modern-day cities, from fertile farmland to desolate deserts, the team has immersed themselves in the country's rich history, traditions, and natural beauty. The show is a must-watch for anyone interested in exploring this unique and mysterious land.