Ethiopia Museums and Art Galleries

(Ethiopia, ET, East Africa)



Photo of city museumEthiopia is a real haven for archaeology-lovers. The country's rich culture is preserved in its museums and art galleries.

Most of these are situated in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa itself. The archaeology and ethnology of Ethiopia are of particular significance.

Indeed, for many visitors, a trip to this part of Africa just wouldn't be complete without a visit to see the remains of the world's oldest hominid.


Ethnological Museum picture

Ethnological Museum

Address: Algeria Street, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, ET, Africa
Ethiopia's national Ethnological Museum boasts the usual range of objects that depict the country's history, traditions and culture. These include ethno-musicological items, philatelic and coin collections, traditional medicine and burial customs. This popular attraction has also taken on the role of conservator of old Ethiopian religious paintings, many of which were in danger of being lost in the 1960s and 1970s. Interestingly, the museum is located within the former palace of Haile Selassie. Indeed, it is possible to visit the palatial bathroom and bedroom as part of your visit to the museum.
Open hours: Tuesday to Friday - 08:00 to 11:30 and 13:30 to 18:00; Saturday and Sunday - 10:00 to 18:00
Admission: charge

National Museum

Address: King George VI Street, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, ET, Africa
Tel: +251 0111 117150
The National Museum of Ethiopia is top of most visitors' itineraries to Addis Ababa, being home to a rich collection of archaeological artefacts. Perhaps the best known is 'Lucy', the 3.5 million year-old skeleton of the world's oldest known hominid (primate ancestor of humans) that was discovered in 1974. The skeleton and skull on display are in fact replicas - the real 'Lucy' is kept very much under lock and key, as the remains are so fragile. Nonetheless, visitors can't help but be fascinated by the detailed casts on display. Also on display is an appealing collection of Ethiopian paintings.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - 08:30 to 12:30 and 13:30 to 17:30; Saturday and Sunday - 09:00 to 17:30
Admission: charge

Addis Ababa Museum

Address: Meskel Square, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, ET, Africa
Established in the middle of the 1980s, this is mainly a museum of photographic exhibits and artefacts. Together, this interesting collection depicts the history, politics, economy and society of Ethiopia. Interestingly, this venue was once the home of the Minister of War, Ras Birru Wolde Gabriel, who lived here in the late 19th century and the early part of the 20th century.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - 08:30 to 12:30 and 13:30 to 18:30; Saturday and Sunday - 08:30 to 12:30
Admission: charge

Zoological Natural History Museum

Address: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, ET, Africa
Ethiopia's only natural history attraction houses a fairly comprehensive selection of native wildlife species, including primates, birds, snakes, lizards and fish. Established in 1955 at the University College of Addis Ababa, the Zoological Natural History Museum currently resides within the science faculty.
Open hours: Tuesday to Sunday - 08:00 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 16:00
Admission: charge

Addis Alem Marian Museum

Address: Addis Alem, Ethiopia, ET, Africa
Addis Alem's Marian Museum was burnt to the ground in the late 1990s. It has recently been restored and is home to a collection of costumes and other antiquities belonging to the former rulers of Ethiopia, as well as some religious items and well-preserved manuscripts.
Open hours: Tuesday to Sunday
Admission: charge