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Though many people use Ethiopia’s capital as a hub to access the country’s wild landscapes (Danakil Depression, Blue Nile Falls) and ancient ruins (Lalibela and Harar), Addis Ababa is actually well worth a few days’ visit. The country’s largest city and one of Africa’s political hubs, Addis Ababa is an eclectic and extremely cultural city to explore, with ample museums, monuments and flavors to be experienced. If you’re planning on stopping over in Ethiopia’s bustling capital, use our cultural guide to Addis Ababa to hit all the major destinations in the city.
The Iconic Buildings
Addis Ababa is home to a number of cultural monuments and grand works of architecture that should be on all itineraries to the city. The late 19th century Saint George’s Cathedral is one of these iconic structures, which not only boasts a distinct architectural form (octagonal) but also commemorates and symbolizes the defeat by the Ethiopians over the Italian Army.
Another striking piece of architecture in the capital is the Holy Trinity Cathedral. The most important Orthodox cathedral in the city, this church is also the burial site for soldiers who fought against the Italians during the occupation. With a number of notable tombs and church relics found inside the cathedral, Holy Trinity is one of Addis Ababa’s most important structures.
On the royal side of architecture, Addis Ababa is also home to a few major palaces. The Menelik Palace was once the throne of Ethiopia’s emperors and today stands as the residence and office of the Prime Minister. The National Palace of Ethiopia was constructed in 1955 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of Emperor Haile Selassie, and today stands as a site for state ceremonies, banquets, and receptions.
Other notable pieces of architecture are the Hager Fikir Theatre (Ethiopia’s oldest theatre), the Grand Anwar Mosque and the Parliament Building.
Addis Ababa’s Museum Scene
Home to a large number of informative and culturally significant museums, any tour of the capital should include a few of these stops.
National Museum of Ethiopia: Housing various artifacts and culturally significant relics, this museum is one of the city’s best. Tour some of the royal memorabilia, Ethiopian works of art and even the remains of “Lucy”- one of the oldest humanoid skeletons to be found in the world.
Ethiopian Ethnological Museum: Located in a former emperor’s palace, this museum provides an in depth look into Ethiopia’s tribes, Orthodox history, booming coffee trade as well as an interactive stroll into the former emperor’s (Haile Selassie) personal quarters.
St. George’s Museum: Located inside the iconic church, this small museum is home to a number of religious artifacts and relics as well as some historic remnants from the defeat of the Italian Army at the hands of the Ethiopians.
Popular City Sites
From Entoto Hill with its panoramic city views to the bustling, vibrant Meskel Square, Addis Ababa has some fantastic city gathering spots. For the ultimate experience in the capital, head over to the Addis Mercato (Market) where you can shuffle your way through one of Africa’s largest open-air markets. Explore the hectic scene or buy some locally made clothes, food, handicrafts, coffee and more… the perfect place to buy your Ethiopian souvenirs!
Thanks to its rich historical background and strong national pride, Addis Ababa is also home to a few notable Ethiopian monuments. From the Tiglachin Memorial, commemorating those who fought in the Ethiopian/Somali War to the Lion of Judah Monument dedicated to Emperor Haile Selassie, the city is filled with historic memorials.
The Gastronomical Side of Culture
No cultural tour of a city is complete without tasting its local specialties. Addis Ababa is a great place to sample some traditional Ethiopian fare, from its national dish Injera (a fermented flatbread) to its stewed spicy meat & vegetable platters. Another must try in the city is the coffee. Ethiopia is famous for its coffee beans and Addis Ababa has no shortage of cafés to try out their famous brew. Go ahead; indulge in a cuppa of Ethiopian Coffee at the Tomoca Coffee Shop on Wawel Street.
For the complete local experience, find a reputable Addis Ababa tour guide to show you all the city’s top sites, hidden gems and best flavours.