Medhanealem Cathedral: A Jewel of Addis Ababa
Explore Medhanealem Cathedral, a stunning architectural masterpiece and spiritual center of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church in Addis Ababa.
A brief summary to Medhanealem Cathedral
- XQRR+RJ5, Addis Ababa, Bole, ET
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Medhanealem Cathedral stands as an iconic landmark in the heart of Addis Ababa, captivating visitors with its magnificent architecture and deep-rooted significance in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. This cathedral, dedicated to Christ the Savior, is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the city’s rich cultural heritage. Its striking exterior, characterized by intricate designs and towering spires, draws the eye and inspires awe. As you step inside, the serene atmosphere envelops you, allowing for reflection and a deeper appreciation of the spiritual art that adorns its walls. Visitors will find themselves surrounded by beautiful frescoes and religious icons that narrate biblical stories and the history of the Ethiopian Orthodox faith. Beyond its architectural beauty, Medhanealem Cathedral serves as a vital community hub, hosting various religious services and cultural events throughout the year. The cathedral’s significance is further highlighted during major religious celebrations, when the community comes together in joyous worship. For tourists, this provides a unique opportunity to witness the vibrant traditions and rituals of Ethiopian Orthodox Christianity. As you explore the surrounding area, you will also discover local markets and eateries that reflect the vibrant culture of Addis Ababa, making a visit to the cathedral an enriching experience that combines spirituality with the essence of Ethiopian life.
Local tips
- Dress modestly to show respect when visiting the cathedral.
- Plan your visit during a service to experience the traditional hymns and rituals.
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter experience and better lighting for photos.
- Don't miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, including local shops and cafes.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Sarbet, head southeast on Sarbet Road towards Bole Road. Continue straight for about 1 kilometer until you reach the intersection with Bole Road. At this intersection, turn left onto Bole Road. Walk along Bole Road for approximately 500 meters until you see the large Medhanealem Cathedral on your right. The cathedral is a prominent building, so it should be easy to spot.
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Public Transport (Minibus)
From Sarbet, find a nearby minibus station (often called 'Bole Minibus Station'). Take a minibus heading towards Bole, and inform the driver of your destination, Medhanealem Cathedral. The fare is generally around 10-20 Ethiopian Birr. Once you reach the stop near Bole Road, disembark and walk about 200 meters back towards the cathedral. The cathedral will be visible from the main road.
Attractions Nearby to Medhanealem Cathedral
- Bole Medhanialem Church
- Bole medhanialem
- Salem's Ethiopia
- Sycamore Ethiopia Tours
- Visit Oromia
- Bora Amusement Park | Bole
- 2000 Habesha cultural restaurant | Bole Atlas | 2000 ሀበሻ የባህል ሬስቶራንት | ቦሌ አትላስ
- Bole Airport Square
- Tomoca Coffee Sefer
- Tomoca Coffee | Wolo Sefer | ቶሞካ ቡና | ወሎ ሰፈር
- Nejashi Mosque | Megenagna 24 | ነጃሺ መስጊድ | መገናኛ 24
- Shola Market | Megenagna
- Addis Ababa Museum | መስቀል አደባባይ
- Addis Ababa Museum | Meskel Square | አዲስ አበባ ሙዚየም | መስቀል አደባባይ
- Red Terror Martyrs' Memorial Museum የቀይ ሽብር መታሰቢያ ሙዚየም
Landmarks nearby to Medhanealem Cathedral
- Danakil Depression Ethiopia Tours
- Bole Fana Park
- Addis Ababa Ethiopia
- Simien Ethiopia Tours
- Unique Addis Ethio In/Out-Door Massage
- Yimana Kitfo | Bole
- Dessalech Kitfo | Bole Millennium | ደሳለች ክትፎ | ቦሌ ሚሊየም
- Omo Valley Experience Tours
- አንዋር የሀገር ቤት Tibs & Kitfo ጥብስ ክትፎ ቤት
- Simien Image Ethiopian Tour and Travel Company
- GISHABAY ETHIOPIA TOURS
- Yohannes Kitfo | Haya Hulet | ዬሀንስ ክትፎ | ሃያ ሁለት
- Yohemiya Cultural Kitfo ዮህምያ ክትፎ
- Awaze Tours
- Top Omo Valley Tours