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National Museum of Ethiopia: A Journey Through Time

Discover Ethiopia's rich history and cultural heritage at the National Museum, home to Lucy and a vast collection of national treasures.

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The National Museum of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa houses the country's most important artistic, historical, and archaeological treasures. From the famous hominid fossil 'Lucy' to royal artifacts and traditional art, the museum offers a captivating journey through Ethiopia's rich heritage.

A brief summary to National Museum of Ethiopia

  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning on a weekday to avoid crowds. The museum is closed on Mondays.
  • Consider hiring a guide for a more in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
  • Photography is allowed, but flash photography may be restricted in some areas.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's collections.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The National Museum is located near Addis Ababa University's graduate school in the Arada district, making it accessible by foot from nearby areas. From Arat Kilo, head east along King George VI Street; the museum will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    Addis Ababa's public transport includes Anbessa buses and minibus taxis. Several bus routes serve the Arat Kilo area near the museum. Check local transit apps like AddisMapTransit for specific routes and schedules. A single bus fare typically costs around 5-10 ETB.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Addis Ababa. You can hail a blue and white taxi on the street or use ride-hailing apps like RIDE or ETTA. A short taxi ride from the city center to the National Museum will cost approximately 70-150 ETB. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about National Museum of Ethiopia

The National Museum of Ethiopia, located in Addis Ababa, is a treasure trove of Ethiopian heritage, showcasing a wide array of artifacts from prehistoric times to the modern era. Established in 1958, the museum has grown to become one of the most significant in sub-Saharan Africa, preserving and presenting Ethiopia's rich cultural, historical, and natural legacy. The museum is organized into four main sections, each offering a unique perspective on Ethiopia's past and present. The basement is dedicated to paleoanthropological discoveries, most notably the fossilized remains of 'Lucy', an Australopithecus afarensis who lived 3.2 million years ago, and 'Selam', a 3.3 million-year-old archaic fossil. These hominid fossils provide invaluable insights into the origins of humanity. The ground floor showcases artifacts from the pre-Aksumite, Aksumite, Solomonic, and Gonderian periods, including ancient Sabaean inscriptions, a 4th-century BC rock-hewn chair, and royal paraphernalia. The first floor displays Ethiopian art, ranging from early parchment paintings to 20th-century canvases, including Afewerk Tekle's renowned 'African Heritage'. The second floor features a collection of secular arts and crafts, with traditional weapons, jewelry, utensils, clothing and musical instruments. While some exhibits may be poorly labeled, the museum offers a comprehensive overview of Ethiopia's diverse history and culture. Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate the collections.

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