Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, which means “new flower”, is aptly named because it is of relatively recent origin. The city was founded by Menelik 11 in 1887 and now towers Ethiopia as it capital and most industrialized city. Its population of over 2 million has served the city that now makes it an important administrative center of the country and to the whole of Africa.

Going around Addis Ababa is a whole new adventure because streets rarely have names. You will use landmarks as reference points to help you n navigate around the city. A large public transportation system covers the town that can help you in case you’ll ever get lost. So if you’re in for an adventure, Addis Ababa may be just the place you’re looking for.

One of the several grandiose landmarks in Addis Ababa is the Menelik Mausoleum, built in 1941 to serve as tombs for royalties. The Africa Hall, also found in the city, has profound importance to the whole continent for it houses the UN Economic Commission for Africa headquarters. Just west of Africa Hall is The Filwoha Springs had an irresistible beauty that persuaded Queen Taytu to establish a new capital at Addis Abba. St. Georges Cathedral, located north of Churchill Road, was built in 1896 in an octagonal shape that commemorates a very important part of the country’s history: its victory at the Battle of Adwa over the Italians. The Mercato is another interesting place. It is the largest market in Africa and offers an assortment of food, produce, jewellery, and even computers.

The adventurous will always find the right place in Addis Ababa. It is certainly a unique destination for those inured to the usual vacation itineraries.