MercatoCity/Region: Addis Ababa
The Mercato is the largest outdoor market in
Africa and Addis' most colorful sight. There are tinkers, tailors, spice merchants, camel traders, and purveyors of just about every possible commodity under the sun - including, of course, wonderful Ethiopian coffee. Needless to say, it is a great place to pick up souvenirs. Mercato really is an exhilarating place to visit although probably not for the faint hearted. With animals wandering the streets, vendors hollering, the pungent aromas of local dishes and a riot of color and sensations,
you will find a visit here to be a memorable experience. This is a pick-pocketing hotspot though, so be careful with your valuables. Wear a money belt under your clothes rather than keeping cash in an accessible place. Bargain hard as prices are enormously flexible and foreigners are routinely charged 3-4 times the going rate. Be careful of purchasing antiques and historical artifacts as without a certificate they may be confiscated at the airport.
National MuseumCity/Region: Addis Ababa
The museum has a varied range of exhibits across three floors covering a wide scope of Ethiopian history. The most famous exhibit is the replica statue of Lucy, at 3.18 million years old, the oldest hominid skeleton ever found. The fragile original skeleton is in the vaults of the building. Also of interest is the selection of celebrated Ethiopian artworks from Aksum, Lalibella, and
Tana Monasteries, plus relics from
Haile Selassie's reign. Check ahead of time as to whether there is a power cut scheduled.
Address: King George VI St, Piazza
Hours: 8.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30pm to 5.30pm
St George CathedralCity/Region: Addis Ababa
St George Cathedral was founded by the great Emperor Menelik to commemorate his 1896 victory over the invading Italian army. The outer walls of the building are covered in wonderful artwork and mosaics, including work by Afewerk Tekle. Inside beautiful stained glass windows enhance the sacred atmosphere. Luminaries such as Haile Selassie and Empress Menen are buried here. Attend a service (enquire for times) to experience the wonderful singing and prayerful chanting so typical of Coptic Christianity.
Address: Fitawrari Gebeyehu St, Piazza
Hours: 8am to 9am and 12pm to 2pm
