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Cinema Capitol

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Landmark
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Cinema Capitol (Eritrea)

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Cinema Capitol in Asmara is one of the city's most spectacular cinemas and a masterpiece of Italian Rationalist architecture. Completed in 1938 based on the designs of architect Mario Messina, the building is notable for its sweeping curved facade and a bold roof construction that was pioneering for its time. A truly unique feature was its mechanically retractable roof, which allowed audiences to enjoy films under the starlit sky of the Eritrean highlands, a technical marvel that highlights the technological ambition of the era. Inside, the cinema has a grand hall with excellent acoustics and ornate decorations that have preserved the glamour of the early 20th century. For decades, the Capitol was a hub of cultural life in Asmara, screening everything from Italian classics to international productions. Despite political shifts and wars, the building has remained almost perfectly preserved. Today, it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site and continues to host cultural events and film screenings. It stands as a symbol of the architectural avant-garde that earned Asmara the nickname 'Piccola Roma' of Africa.

Best time to visit & climate

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

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📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Cinema Capitol is a historic building that can usually only be viewed from outside. The interior may be accessible during film screenings.
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Typical hours
Film screenings typically take place in the afternoon and evening. The exterior facade is visible anytime during daylight.
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Photography
Taking photos of the facade is allowed anytime. If you visit the interior, ask about the photography rules.
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Time needed
A short visit from outside takes about 10 minutes. If you want to watch a film, allow at least two hours.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a walk along Asmara's main street. Cinema Odeon and Cinema Roma are just a few minutes away.
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Getting there
Cinema Capitol is in central Asmara and easily reachable on foot. Many buses and taxis stop in the area.
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Insider tip
Visit the cinema in the evening when the facade is lit up. Ask about current film screenings if you want to catch a movie.

Geography

Coordinates
15.33500, 38.93600

Facts

  • The cinema was designed by architect Mario Messina in 1938.
  • It features a unique retractable roof for open-air film screenings.
  • The facade showcases the clean horizontal lines typical of Rationalism.
  • In its heyday, it was one of more than a dozen cinemas operating in Asmara.
  • The building was recognized as part of a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2017.
  • The interior includes original wood carvings and Art Deco decorative elements.

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Sights in the town Cinema Capitol (1)

Abel's home📍 landmark

Abel's home stands out in the Kino Capitol district of Asmara as an example of the distinct local residential architecture.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about Cinema Capitol?
It has a retractable roof that was formerly used for ventilation.
When was Cinema Capitol built?
It was built in 1938 according to the designs of architect R. Cappellano.
Is it still used as a cinema today?
Yes, it is one of the many historic cinemas in Asmara that are still in operation.
In what architectural style is it built?
It is a classic example of Italian Futurism.
Where is the cinema located?
It is centrally located on one of the side streets of Harnet Avenue.
Cinema Capitol: where is it located?
Cinema Capitol is located in Eritrea.
Cinema Capitol: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
Cinema Capitol: why is it worth visiting?
Cinema Capitol in Asmara is one of the city's most spectacular cinemas and a masterpiece of Italian Rationalist architecture.
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