Plizio Visual Lab

Imperial Palace of Asmara

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

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The Imperial Palace in Asmara, also known as the Governor's Palace, is a magnificent example of neoclassical architecture from the Italian colonial era in Eritrea. Built in 1897 at the behest of Ferdinando Martini, the first civilian governor, the building was intended to underscore Italy's power and claims in the region. The facade is characterized by elegant arches, balustrades, and symmetrical windows, giving the structure a majestic aura. After the Italian rule, the palace was used as a residence for Emperor Haile Selassie during the Ethiopian period, which gave it its current name. The interior houses sumptuous halls that were once the scene of diplomatic receptions and ceremonial occasions. Surrounded by well-kept gardens, the palace stands today as a silent witness to Eritrea's turbulent history and is an integral part of the architectural ensemble that earned Asmara the nickname 'Piccola Roma'.

Location: Eritrea
Top sights: Shida Monument · Casa degli Italiani (Gallery) · 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

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Visiting

The Imperial Palace of Asmara, also known as the Governor's Palace, is a historic building from the Italian colonial period. The exterior is publicly accessible, while interiors are typically only visible from outside.

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Typical hours

The palace is typically viewable from the outside during daytime. Interior visits are often only possible by prior appointment, so inquire in advance.

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Photography

Photography of the exterior facade is generally allowed. For interior shots, you usually need permission from the authorities.

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Time needed

Viewing from outside takes about 15-30 minutes. If you arrange an interior tour, allow around one hour including waiting.

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Combine with

Combine a visit to the palace with the nearby Asmara Cinema and the cathedral. Asmara's city center with its Italian architecture is walkable.

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Getting there

The palace is located in central Asmara, near Freedom Park. Taxis and minibuses stop nearby; many hotels are within walking distance.

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Insider tip

Ask at the tourist office for an interior tour appointment. A stroll along Liberty Avenue provides a great view of the building.

Geography

Coordinates

15.33400, 38.93250

Facts

The palace was completed in 1897 in a neoclassical style.
It served as a residence for Emperor Haile Selassie during his visits.
The building is located in central Asmara near the National Museum.
The gardens contain various exotic plants from the colonial era.
It was originally the center of the Italian administration in Eritrea.
The palace is now an important part of Asmara's UNESCO heritage.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Asmara<1 km · NWExplore →

Asmara green belt2 km · SWExplore →

Italian Cemetery Asmara2 km · SEExplore →

Tank Graveyard Asmara3 km · SExplore →

Asmara nature park4 km · NWExplore →

Eritrean Airlines Maintenance Center5 km · SWExplore →

Sembel Archaeological Site6 km · SWExplore →

Debre Bizen Monastery15 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

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

Sights in the town Imperial Palace of Asmara (10)

Shida Monument

Monument in Asmara, commemorating a historical battle, located along a road.

Casa degli Italiani (Gallery)

Gallery in Asmara, former Italian cultural center, hosts art exhibitions.

Abel's home

House in Asmara, former home of a local personality.

Nation Museum of Eritrea🏛 museum

Museum in Asmara, displays archaeological finds and historical artifacts of the country.

🕒 09:00-11:00,15:00-17:00; We off

Saint Joseph's Cathedral

Church in Asmara, Catholic cathedral, built in the 1920s.

Hewenet

Attraction in Asmara, a square or building with local significance.

H Max

Attraction in Asmara, possibly a shop or meeting point.

Pushkin Monument

Monument in Asmara, in honor of the poet Alexander Pushkin.

Kidane Meheret Church

Catholic church in Asmara, dedicated to Our Lady of the Covenant.

San Francisco

Monument in Asmara, possibly a cross or a statue.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can the Imperial Palace be visited?

Since it is used as a government building, access to the interior is usually not permitted; it can be seen from the outside.

Who built the palace?

It was built during the Italian colonial period at the end of the 19th century for the Italian governor.

What is the architectural style of the palace?

It is designed in a neoclassical style with magnificent gardens and porticos.

Where is the palace located?

It is located in the heart of Asmara, near the city park and other important government offices.

Is photography allowed in front of the palace?

One should be careful and ask beforehand, as it is a secured government area.

Imperial Palace of Asmara: where is it located?

Imperial Palace of Asmara is located in Eritrea.

Imperial Palace of Asmara: what is there to see?

Highlights include Shida Monument, Casa degli Italiani (Gallery), Abel's home.

Imperial Palace of Asmara: when is the best time to visit?