Addis Ababa City Tour
The establishment Of Addis Ababa
The first capital city of Ethiopia was Entoto (about 3,000 meters above sea level). After staying about ten years on Entoto Mountain (1878–1887), Emperor Menelik II and Empress Taytu were drawn to the warm springs of Filwoha. They decided to move from the cold heights of Entoto to this more comfortable location.
In 1886, Empress Taytu admired the area’s beauty and built a house there, followed by others who settled nearby. By 1887, construction of the new town began, and Taytu named it Addis Ababa, meaning “New Flower.”
Emperor Menelik favored the site for its comfort and better communication routes. The National Palace was built in 1887. By 1889, major buildings were underway, and in 1891 the first stone house and the Sellassie Church were constructed. Menelik distributed land to nobles and Europeans and improved food supply by organizing farmland and taxation, laying the foundation for Ethiopia’s modern capital.
Things to See in Addis Ababa
National Museum of Ethiopia
The National Museum of Ethiopia is one of Africa’s most important museums. Established in 1958 and officially recognized as a national museum in 1976, it houses archaeological and cultural artifacts of Ethiopia.
Here you can see the 3.2-million-year-old hominid skeleton “Lucy” (Dinknesh), discovered in 1974 at Hadar — a discovery that contributed to the theory that Ethiopia is the cradle of humankind.
Unity Park
Unity Park offers a glimpse of Ethiopia’s royal history, cultural diversity, and wildlife in one place. Located inside the 19th-century Grand Palace, the park was initiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
Attractions include historical palaces, cultural pavilions, an aquarium, and a zoo where black-maned Ethiopian lions, ostriches, peacocks, cheetahs, wild dogs, and gelada baboons can be seen.
Ethnographic Museum
This museum houses traditional artifacts representing the lifestyles of Ethiopia’s major ethnic groups. It is located within Addis Ababa University.
Merkato Market
Merkato is the largest open-air market in Africa. Though busy and complex, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Ethiopia’s traditional trading culture. Visitors can find goods and artifacts from all parts of the country.
Mount Entoto
Mount Entoto, at 3,200 meters altitude, is the highest peak overlooking Addis Ababa. It was the site of Emperor Menelik II’s first palace and the location where he was crowned. From the mountain, you can enjoy panoramic views of Addis Ababa and its surrounding forests.
Holy Trinity Cathedral
This beautiful church, built in European baroque style, is dedicated to the Holy Trinity. Inside, you can see stained-glass biblical artworks, imperial family tombs, Greek sculptures, and the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie I and his wife.
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