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Albergo Italia
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Hotel Albergo Italia in Asmara is one of the oldest and most traditional hotels in Eritrea. Built in 1899 during the early Italian colonial period, it stands out for its grand architecture in the style of Italian Historicism. The building features an elegant facade with elaborate decorations and classic balconies. Inside, the hotel has a luxurious atmosphere with high ceilings, antique furniture, and marble floors that have been carefully restored. Over the decades, it has hosted numerous prominent guests, including diplomats and explorers. Following an extensive renovation in 2004, the hotel regained its former glory, combining historical charm with modern comfort. Located in the heart of the city, it is regarded as a prime example of the preservation of colonial heritage in Asmara. A stay here is like a journey back in time to the turn of the 20th century.
- Location: Eritrea
- Top sights: Casa degli Italiani (Gallery) · Hewenet · Abel's home
- Nearby: Filfil (26 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 20 | 21 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 24 | 23 | 24 | 22 | 21 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 4 | 8 | 7 | 26 | 18 | 33 | 125 | 145 | 31 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
As a functioning luxury hotel, the public areas, lobby, and restaurant are generally open to non-guests who wish to admire the historic architecture. To see the carefully restored guest rooms, you will typically need to book an overnight stay.
Typical hours
The hotel lobby and reception are typically staffed around the clock for guests, while the cafe and restaurant have standard daytime and evening service hours. It is best to visit during the day or early evening to fully appreciate the elegant atmosphere.
Photography
Photography in the main public spaces is usually permitted and highly recommended due to the beautiful 1899 Italianate design. However, always ask for permission before photographing staff members or other hotel guests out of basic courtesy.
Time needed
If you are simply stopping by for a coffee or to admire the historic lobby, expect to spend about thirty to forty-five minutes here. Naturally, those choosing to dine at the restaurant or stay overnight will experience the charm much longer.
Combine with
This historic landmark is perfectly situated in Asmara to be combined with a walking tour of the city's famous modernist and Art Deco architecture. You can easily stroll to nearby cafes, old cinemas, and busy local markets in the city center.
Getting there
The hotel is located centrally in Asmara, making it easily accessible on foot if you are already exploring the downtown area. Taxis are also readily available throughout the city and can drop you off right at the main entrance of the building.
Insider tip
Even if you are not staying as a guest overnight, try to have a coffee or a traditional meal in their dining room to truly absorb the 1899 ambiance. Paying attention to the intricate woodwork and restored furniture adds to the overall experience.
Geography
Facts
- The hotel was completed in 1899 and is one of the first hotels established in the city.
- It is located on Nakfa Street, within the historic center of Asmara.
- The building underwent a complete renovation and modernization in 2004.
- It features magnificent dining rooms decorated with original murals.
- The hotel has survived the colonial era, British administration, and the Ethiopian period.
- It is a key architectural element of the UNESCO-protected urban core.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Albergo Italia (10)
Saint Joseph's Cathedral
Church in Asmara, Eritrea, an important religious building.
Shida Monument
A monument in Asmara commemorating a historical event.
Nation Museum of Eritrea🏛 museum
Museum in Eritrea, displaying the country's history and culture.
Haben home
A house in Asmara, recognized as a local attraction.
Pushkin Monument
Monument to poet Alexander Pushkin in Asmara.
San Francisco
A monument in Asmara referencing the city of San Francisco.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Albergo Italia the oldest hotel in Asmara?
Yes, it was built in 1899 and is considered the oldest hotel in the city.
Can you eat there even if you are not a hotel guest?
Yes, the hotel has a renowned restaurant that is open to visitors.
What is the decor style of the hotel?
It is decorated in a grand colonial style with antique furniture.
Where is the hotel located?
It is centrally located near the post office and the main street.
Is a visit worth it for architecture fans?
Absolutely, it is one of the best-preserved historical buildings in the city.
Albergo Italia: where is it located?
Albergo Italia is located in Eritrea.
Albergo Italia: what is there to see?
Highlights include Casa degli Italiani (Gallery), Hewenet, Abel's home.
Albergo Italia: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
Albergo Italia: why is it worth visiting?
Hotel Albergo Italia in Asmara is one of the oldest and most traditional hotels in Eritrea.
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History & landmarks
Kidane Mehret Cathedral
A striking Catholic cathedral of the Eritrean rite in Asmara, known for its impressive brick architecture.
Asmara Municipality Building
The administrative center of the city of Asmara, a massive building with mosaics reflecting fascist monumental architecture.
Asmara Opera House
A historical opera house in Asmara from the Italian colonial period, known for its elegant architecture.
Cinema Odeon
A well-preserved cinema in Asmara with an elegant facade and a magnificent Art Deco entrance area.
Asmara Telecommunications Building
A significant modernist building in the center of Asmara representing the architecture of the late 1930s.
Asmara Governor's Palace
The historic palace in the center of Asmara, built during the colonial period, featuring neoclassical traits.
Ministry of Education Asmara
An impressive administrative building in Asmara that once served as the headquarters of the fascist party and is today dedicated to educa…
Asmara Central Market
A huge open-air and indoor market that is an essential center for trade and local life in the capital.
More places
🗺️
Khulafa al-Rashidun Mosque
The Khulafa al-Rashidun Mosque in the center of Asmara was built during the Italian colonial period in the late 1930s.
St. Joseph's Cathedral
The Catholic St.
Cinema Impero
The Cinema Impero in Asmara is one of the best-preserved Art Deco buildings in the world.
Enda Mariam Cathedral
The Orthodox Cathedral of Enda Mariam in Asmara is one of the three most prominent religious buildings in the city.
Imperial Palace of Asmara
The Imperial Palace, also known as the Governor's Palace, was built in 1897 during the Italian colonial period.
Asmara children's amusement park
A popular park for families with play equipment.
Asmara Power Plant
An important diesel power plant in the capital region that supports local energy supply.
Asmara youth and children center
Center for cultural and sports activities for children.