The Vibrant Hub Of Africa
Addis Ababa literally means ‘New Flower’ in Amharic. Founded a little more than a century ago by emperor Menelik II; it is the capital of Ethiopia and the political center of Africa. Unlike many other African cities, was not founded as a colonial settlement. Rather, Emperor Menelik II picked it to be Ethiopia’s permanent capital in the 1880s. Addis Ababa is not only the diplomatic capital of Africa and a thriving metropolis but also a growing city that takes pride in its multifaceted assets, an interesting stopover on an Ethiopian vacation. When Menelik’s reign begins, he leads a traveling court that moves according to the political and military needs and resources available. In the early 1880s, Menelik set up camp in Entoto to serve as a stepping stone in the conquest of neighboring regions. The place, reputed to have already hosted camps of Ethiopian kings in the Middle Ages, also symbolized the historic character of the “reconquest”. Perched at more than 3000 meters above sea level, Entoto Hill has a harsh climate. So, Menelik moves his court soon below, near the hot springs frequented by Queen Taitu, who baptizes the place “new flower”, Addis Ababa.

Addis Ababa lies at the foot of Mount Entoto, it may look like a modest-sized city. The city is a settlement at an altitude of 2500-2700 making it the 4th high capital cities worldwide. With more than 5 million inhabitants with people of different languages and regions. Located at the center of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa is one of the most beautiful touristic cities for those who want to get to know Africa with its unified cultural mosaic, and rich history. Addis Ababa, in the center, still resembles a sizable camp from the late nineteenth century. The king’s gebbi (palace), which is perched on the summit of the city’s tallest hill, is made up of a number of structures connected by three ramparts. There are many places to visit in Addis Ababa such as; the Holy Trinity cathedral, one of the city’s largest Orthodox cathedrals built during Haile Selassie. National Museum, where Lucy and important artifacts in terms of Ethiopian History are exhibited. Ethnographic museum, found the house of the former Ethiopian king Hailie Selassie. It is a cultural museum that gives a comprehensive view of the Ethiopian people. Entoto hill is one of the must-visit places for those who want to get to know local people and taste the natural atmosphere.

It is one of the natural park areas in the city and is a nice choice for those who want open-air and city views. Merkato, the busiest place is another place to see. Unity Park, located inside the Grand Palace (Menelik’s Palace), was opened in October 2019 and includes a Green Area; a Black-maned Lion Zoo; Traditional Garden, Regional States Pavilion, where regional states will display their cultural and historical assets; Historical Palace Buildings; and a Zoo. The visit to Unity Park will give you the chance to experience historical and cultural Ethiopia, witness the architecture, see the palace, observe the royal household history and items, visit the beautiful garden, listen to and watch historical timelines, and observe displays of the major religions in the country.


