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Colonial Town of Decemhare

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

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Decemhare is a historical town south of Asmara that was developed in the 1930s during the Italian colonial period as a major industrial and agricultural hub. Envisioned by the Italians as 'Piccola Roma' (Little Rome), it was intended to grow into a modern metropolis to support the capital. The town's architecture is characterized by elegant Art Deco villas, wide boulevards, and functional industrial buildings, which today serve as a unique open-air museum of colonial urban planning. Decemhare was once famous for its lush vineyards and orchards, which supplied the entire region with fresh produce. During the Eritrean War of Independence, the town was the site of fierce battles, highlighting its strategic importance in the highlands. Today, despite the marks of history, Decemhare maintains a characterful, small-town character with a relaxed atmosphere. The well-preserved facades of its older buildings stand as a testament to early 20th-century modernist visions, attracting visitors interested in architectural and colonial history.

Location: Eritrea
Top sights: Dekemhare · Dekemhare subregion
Nearby: Mendefera (30 km)
Population: ~10.959 (2021)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Oct, Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	19	21	23	24	25	24	21	20	21	21	20	19
Rain mm	3	6	9	27	26	41	143	162	42	13	5	4

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The colonial town of Decemhare is an open-air museum featuring Italian colonial architecture. The buildings and streets can be explored at any time.

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Typical hours

Since it is an open town, there are no fixed visiting hours. Shops and museums have their own schedules, which you should inquire about locally.

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Photography

Photography of the architecture is generally allowed and encouraged. Be mindful of privacy when people are in the frame.

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Time needed

A walk through the historic center takes about one hour. Allow extra time for visiting the small museums and churches.

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Combine with

Decemhare is near Asmara, the capital of Eritrea, which features many more colonial buildings. The archaeological site of Qohaito is also not far.

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Getting there

The town is about 30 kilometers south of Asmara, reachable by bus or taxi. The road is paved and in good condition.

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Insider tip

Go early in the morning to take advantage of the soft light on the facades. Look out for traditional coffee houses for an authentic break.

Geography

Population

10,959 (2021)

Coordinates

15.06670, 39.04670

Facts

The town was heavily developed in the 1930s.
It is located about 40 kilometers south of Asmara.
Its colonial nickname was 'Piccola Roma' (Little Rome).
Decemhare was a center for wine and fruit production.
The architecture is prominently Art Deco in style.
It served as a vital logistical hub for the Italians.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Dekemhare family park8 km · NExplore →

Dekemhare fruit orchards12 km · NExplore →

Semien-Bahri Mountains13 km · NEExplore →

Esen Plateau21 km · EExplore →

Mai Aini Marble Quarry22 km · SWExplore →

Kuma Plateau22 km · NWExplore →

Asmara nature park23 km · SEExplore →

Dbarwa Ceramics Plant23 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Colonial Town of Decemhare (2)

Dekemhare📍 landmark

Dekemhare is a town in the Debub region of Eritrea. It functions as a local administrative and trading center.

Dekemhare subregion📍 landmark

The Dekemhare subregion covers the area around the town of Dekemhare in Eritrea's Debub region.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about Decemhare?

The town is known for its well-preserved Italian colonial architecture and its fruit orchards.

How far is Decemhare from Asmara?

It is located about 40 km south of Asmara and can be reached in less than an hour by car.

Can the old industrial buildings be visited?

Many buildings can be viewed from the outside; for interior tours, local contacts are often needed.

What local specialties are there in Decemhare?

The region is famous for its grapes, oranges, and papayas, which can be bought fresh at the market.

Is the town safe for tourists?

Yes, Decemhare is considered very peaceful and welcoming for visitors exploring colonial history.

Colonial Town of Decemhare: where is it located?

Colonial Town of Decemhare is located in Eritrea.

Colonial Town of Decemhare: what is there to see?

Highlights include Dekemhare, Dekemhare subregion.

Colonial Town of Decemhare: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Oct, Nov.

Colonial Town of Decemhare: why is it worth visiting?

Decemhare is a historical town south of Asmara that was developed in the 1930s during the Italian colonial period as a major industrial and agricultural hub.

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