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Also known as the Menelik mausoleum, is located just south of the Menelik palace.
© OpenStreetMap contributors
Opened in October 2019 this is one of the must see sights in Addis Ababa. The expansive site is home to the Palace of Emperor Menelik II, including his Throne Room and Banquet Hall, along with a zoo, exhibitions, sculptures, and wonderful beds of flowers. It is probably the best presented site in Ethiopia, the pet project of the Prime Minister, whose office is also on the site. Allow 2-3 hours to visit. Security is extremely strict, with no food or water allowed to be brought in (but can be bought inside) and cameras and power banks have to be left in a cloakroom, but mobile phones are fine. You will need to show your passport to enter.
Built by the Derg regime of Mengistu Haile Mariam as its parliament hall, as of 2024 the known as the Office of the Prime Minister of Ethiopia. The Shengo Hall was the world's largest pre-fabricated building, which was constructed in Finland before being assembled in Addis Ababa. It is used for large meetings and conventions.
It was built to commemorate the country's liberation from the Italians, and many victims killed by the Italians during occupation are buried here. The locals call the church Haile Selassie Church because Emperor Haile Selassie's body was moved here in 2000. Surrounding the cathedral is a cemetery with notable Ethiopians, including Patriarchs, Prime Ministers, athletes, musicians, and football commentators! The suffragette Sylvia Pankhurst is buried in the churchyard. There is a small museum in the site and a number of smaller churches. As with all churches in Ethiopia shoes must be left outside.
Founded in 1955, the museum reportedly displays about 1100 species of African animals.
Palace Museum
Built as the Jubilee Palace to mark Emperor Haile Selassie's Silver Jubilee in 1955, it was the residence of the President of Ethiopia until, following an extensive renovation, it was opened to the public as the Palace Museum. The palace basement showcases various collections related to Haile Selassie and subsequent Ethiopian heads of state, including diplomatic gifts and the imperial coronation throne. A separate building houses Haile Selassie's car collection, which is the first stop for visitors as they enter the grounds. Photography (no flash) for personal use is now allowed except for the two rooms by the palace entrance, which are still used for state functions.