Culture of Addis Ababa. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

The best way to get acquainted with the culture and history of the city is to go on a tour of its numerous museums. An interesting collection of exhibits is presented by the National Museum, the main artifact of which is a copy of the skeleton of Australopithecus Lucy. The remains of an ancient man were found in Ethiopia in 1974, and according to archaeologists, the age of the Australopithecus is more than 3.2 million years. Near the museum, you can discover the National Archives and Library of Ethiopia, which was opened in 1944. Some of the library buildings are reserved for the national archive. Documents stored here include important historical letters, which are considered to be the most valuable museum exhibits.

Cuisine of Addis Ababa for gourmet with top restaurants and cafe

Almost all traditional dishes are prepared with the addition of various spices and seasonings. Basil, saffron, mustard, coriander, thyme, red pepper and other spices are added to meat and …

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Not less remarkable are Addis Ababa Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, and the local Museum of Natural History. Also, visitors to the city should think about visiting the Railway Museum and the Post Museum. Among the religious attractions, tourists pay special attention to the orthodox Saint George's Cathedral dating back to 1896. In 1937, the church was badly damaged by fire, but four years later it was completely restored. This cathedral is a place where many great emperors were crowned. Today, next to it is a museum, the exposition of which comprises skillful stained-glass windows and an amazing imperial throne.

An important religious landmark is the Holy Trinity Cathedral that had also witnessed many important historical events. We can not ignore the ancient Anwar Mosque, as well as the famous Addis Ababa Theater housed in a beautiful historic building. Another bright city attraction is Mercato Market. It was founded in those days when Ethiopia was an Italian colony. The present-day market presents a wide range of authentic products and memorable souvenirs attracting thousands of foreign tourists. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Authentic traditions, festivals and lifestyle of Addis Ababa inhabitants

Ethiopia is a country of 13 months and has always been on its own. Today, it remains an attractive place for tourist trips. Ethiopia is a densely populated country, including temporary …

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The Mausoleum of Menelik II is another place which you should visit a priori. It is located on the territory of the former emperor’s palace, which was also the residence of monarchs for a long time. The palace, of course, also deserves a visit. In the building, besides the mausoleum, there are still several residential buildings, halls, chapels and operational facilities, since, among other things, the building is used as the residence of the Prime Minister. The entire interior space can be effortlessly visited, and the story of the life of the deeply revered monarch is worth hearing as it is very interesting.

The busiest area of the city is Menelik II Square. Here you will find a monument erected to the great emperor. Around it, there are many fascinating restaurants, cafes, and shops. Another square with the symbolic name “Yekatit 12 Martyrs Square” is also considered a historical place. There is a memorial sculpture with some religious descriptions on it. If you are interested, you can go for an unforgettable walk on Karls Square. However, merely passing by it and seeing the beautiful outlines of the green square, is very pleasant.

Your active city break in Addis Ababa. Attractions, recreation and entertainment - best places to spend your day and night here

In Addis Ababa, you will find a diverse and bright nightlife. If you prefer to spend nice night hours in a luxury establishment - visit the H2O Night Club. You will be astonished by a …

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The Tewodros Square, named after Emperor Tewodros, is another good place to go strolling and sightseeing. On one of them stands a monument in the form of a huge cannon, as a sign that the ruler wanted to restore the railway industry. Meskel Square is the main shopping street. It is surrounded by banks, shops, restaurants. This square is remarkable for being constructed in the form of an amphitheater. It is named in honor of the national holiday called Meskel, and therefore a local flavor can be felt here.

What is not expected to be seen in the capital of Ethiopia is a monument to Bob Marley. In any case, there is one here, and it is mounted at the intersection of Main Street with a densely occupied Gherzi district. The renowned musician is very much respected in Ethiopia, which is why he has a monument erected to him. Among the colorful attractions, the Entoto Maryam Church is worth mentioning. The temple was built on the orders of Menelik II, and, being one of the most beautiful architectural structures, it definitely deserves a visit by any traveler who wants to learn more about the culture of Ethiopia, as well as the country’s history.

Advices to travellers: what you should know while being in Addis Ababa

1. In public places, any manifestation of feelings between a man and a woman is forbidden. Even legitimate spouses should not walk around the city hand in hand. 2. The issues of lifestyle …

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Melka Kunture is the perfect place for lovers of archeology and history. Here you can look at the millions of years of the history of Ethiopia and its capital. Nonetheless, to get acquainted with the local history, it will be more useful to visit the Ethnological Museum. Here you will be told in details about different events that occurred in the history of Ethiopia, about the Red Terror in particular. By the way, a separate museum is dedicated to (the Red Terror). Such places are definitely needed so that more of such errors are never repeated in history. The exhibits here include documents, instruments of torture, and photographs from that time.

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Iconic cultural sights of Ethiopia

The fortress-city of Fasil Ghebbi is a landmark of international level that is present in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The fortress is a complex of palaces, temples, and other buildings that date back to the 17th – 18th centuries. Architecture experts will immediately notice an incredible combination of different styles. There are baroque elements, as well as Arabian, Nubian, and Indian styles. Fasil Ghebbi was the residence of local kings several centuries ago. Nowadays, this is a true magnet for tourists from all over the world. The city of Gondar, which is the location of the fortress, was the capital of Ethiopia until the 19th century, so it also has notable architectural landmarks like synagogues and churches. … Open

Culture of Addis Ababa. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Iconic cultural sights of Ethiopia

Photogallery of cultural heritage of Addis Ababa

Landmarks of culture on Addis Ababa map: art-galleries, monuments, palaces, etc

Excursions over cultural sights of neighbours of Addis Ababa