Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa at night

Addis Ababa is the capital city of Ethiopia. It is the largest city in the country and serves as the political, cultural, and economic hub of Ethiopia. The city is located at the geographic center of the country and is situated at an elevation of 2,355 meters (7,726 feet), making it one of the highest capital cities in the world.

History

Addis Ababa was founded in 1886 by Emperor Menelik II. The city was established as the capital of Ethiopia due to its strategic location and favorable climate. Over the years, Addis Ababa has grown from a small settlement into a bustling metropolis.

The palace of Menelik II in Addis Ababa, circa 1900

During the early 20th century, Addis Ababa became a center for diplomatic missions and international organizations. The city played a significant role during the Second Italo-Ethiopian War and was occupied by Italian forces from 1936 to 1941.

Geography

Addis Ababa is located in the central part of Ethiopia, at the foot of the Entoto Mountains. The city covers an area of 527 square kilometers (203 square miles) and is characterized by a diverse topography, including hills, valleys, and flatlands.

Climate

The city experiences a subtropical highland climate, with mild temperatures throughout the year. The average annual temperature is around 16°C (61°F), with a rainy season from June to September and a dry season from October to February.

Economy

Addis Ababa is the economic center of Ethiopia, with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, trade, and services. The city is home to numerous businesses, banks, and financial institutions. The Addis Ababa Light Rail system, inaugurated in 2015, is a key component of the city's transportation infrastructure.

Addis Ababa Light Rail vehicle

Culture

Addis Ababa is a cultural melting pot, with a rich blend of ethnicities, languages, and traditions. The city hosts several cultural institutions, including the National Museum of Ethiopia, which houses the famous fossil remains of Lucy.

Landmarks

The city is home to numerous landmarks and historical sites, including:

• Holy Trinity Cathedral
• St. George's Cathedral
• Anwar Mosque
• Menelik II Palace

St. George's Cathedral

Holy Trinity Cathedral

Anwar Grand Mosque

Education

Addis Ababa is a major center for education in Ethiopia. The city is home to several universities and colleges, including Addis Ababa University, which is the oldest and largest university in the country.

Park at Addis Ababa University

Transportation

The city is served by Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, which is the main gateway for international flights to and from Ethiopia. Public transportation within the city includes buses, taxis, and the light rail system.

Related pages

• Ethiopia
• Menelik II
• Second Italo-Ethiopian War
• Addis Ababa University

Gallery

• 

  British legation in Addis Ababa, 1910

• 

  Mausoleum of Emperor Menelik II

• 

  Aerial view of Addis Ababa, 1934

• 

  Street scene in Addis Ababa, 1934