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National Museum of Ethiopia

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National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)

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The National Museum of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa is one of the most significant cultural institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa and a cornerstone for understanding human origins. Established in 1958, the museum houses an extraordinary collection ranging from prehistoric fossils to modern art. Its most famous exhibit is the replica of the skeleton of "Lucy" (locally known as Dinkinesh), a 3.2-million-year-old hominid discovered in 1974 in the Afar region. Beyond its world-renowned paleontological section, the museum gives deep insights into the pre-Axumite and Axumite eras, showcasing ancient pottery, inscriptions, and jewelry. The upper floors are dedicated to Ethiopian art, featuring works by renowned modern painters, as well as ethnographic displays of traditional crafts and costumes from across the country. Located near the Addis Ababa University, the museum remains a vital center for international scientific research and a source of national pride for the Ethiopian people.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C151718181818161616141414
Rain mm1227569089116239246145341613

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The National Museum of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa is a public museum open to visitors. The exhibitions include paleontological finds such as the famous 'Lucy' fossil, as well as ethnographic and art history collections.
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Typical hours
The museum typically opens from 8:30am to 5pm, with a lunch break from 12:30 to 2pm. It is closed on major holidays; checking hours in advance is advised.
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Photography
Photography without flash is allowed in most areas. The room with the Lucy fossil has special photography rules - ask staff for current regulations.
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Time needed
Allow at least 2 hours for a comprehensive tour of the various sections. The collections of Ethiopian art and archaeology are particularly noteworthy.
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Combine with
The museum is in Addis Ababa, near the Exhibition Centre and Holy Trinity Cathedral. Combine with Mount Entoto for a panoramic view of the city.
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Getting there
The museum is easily reached by taxi or bus (Anbessa lines). It is on the city's main road, though parking is limited.
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Insider tip
Arrive early to see the famous Lucy fossil without long waits. The museum bookshop has a good selection of publications on Ethiopian history and archaeology.

Geography

Coordinates
9.03800, 38.76100

Facts

  • Established in 1958 to house Ethiopia's historical treasures.
  • Home to the remains of 'Lucy' (Dinkinesh), discovered in 1974.
  • Features four main sections including paleontology and archaeology.
  • Displays imperial regalia, including thrones of former emperors.
  • Located near the Addis Ababa University in the Amist Kilo area.
  • Contains stone inscriptions dating back to the pre-Christian era.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Meyazia 27 MonumentMeyazia 27 Monument<1 km · WExplore →
Friendship SquareFriendship Square2 km · SWExplore →
Meskel SquareMeskel Square2 km · WExplore →
Grand Anwar MosqueGrand Anwar Mosque3 km · SExplore →
BGI Ethiopia BreweryBGI Ethiopia Brewery4 km · SWExplore →
Medhane Alem CathedralMedhane Alem Cathedral5 km · NWExplore →
Gullele Botanical GardenGullele Botanical Garden6 km · SExplore →
Yeka Nature ParkYeka Nature Park7 km · NExplore →

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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Sights in the town National Museum of Ethiopia (1)

National Museum of Ethiopia🏛 museum

This museum is internationally renowned for displaying the partial skeleton of the hominid Lucy.

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Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the National Museum located?
It is located in the Amist Kilo area of Addis Ababa, near the university.
What is the most famous exhibit?
The skeletal remains of 'Lucy' (Dinknesh), one of the oldest hominids in the world.
What are the opening hours?
The museum is generally open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
Is there also art there?
Yes, there are sections for contemporary art as well as historical and ethnographic collections.
Is photography allowed in the museum?
Photography is usually allowed for a small additional fee, without using a flash.
National Museum of Ethiopia: where is it located?
National Museum of Ethiopia is located in Ethiopia.
National Museum of Ethiopia: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
National Museum of Ethiopia: why is it worth visiting?
The National Museum of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa is one of the most significant cultural institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa and a cornerstone for understanding human origins.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Africa
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Africa
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Nearby cities

Addis Ababa — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
Addis Ababa
The capital and largest city of Ethiopia, and the headquarters of the African Union.

History & landmarks

Meyazia 27 Monument — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
Meyazia 27 Monument
A historic monument in Addis Ababa commemorating the liberation of Ethiopia from Italian occupation.
Yekatit 12 Monument — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
Yekatit 12 Monument
A monument honoring the victims of the Graziani massacre during the Italian occupation of Addis Ababa.
Holy Trinity Cathedral — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
Holy Trinity Cathedral
A highly ornate Orthodox cathedral that serves as the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie.
St. George&#39;s Cathedral — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
St. George's Cathedral
An octagonal church in Addis Ababa, noted for its distinct architectural style and historical significance.
Menelik II Monument — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
Menelik II Monument
An equestrian statue of Emperor Menelik II, celebrating his victory at the Battle of Adwa.
Abune Petros Monument — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
Abune Petros Monument
A statue commemorating Archbishop Abune Petros, an Ethiopian patriot executed during the Italian occupation.
Tiglachin Monument — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
Tiglachin Monument
A prominent memorial dedicated to Ethiopian and Cuban soldiers involved in the Ogaden War.
Jubilee Palace — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
Jubilee Palace
Built to mark Emperor Haile Selassie's Silver Jubilee, it now serves as the official residence of the President.

Nature

Akaki River — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
Akaki River
A small river near Addis Ababa.

More places

Unity Park Addis — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
Unity Park Addis
A large theme park on the grounds of the Imperial Palace with a zoo and museums.
Addis Lion Zoo — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
Addis Lion Zoo
A historic zoo especially known for the rare Abyssinian lions.
St. George&#39;s Cathedral (Addis Ababa) — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
St. George's Cathedral (Addis Ababa)
An octagonal church commissioned by Emperor Menelik II in 1896 to commemorate the victory at Adwa against the Italians.
Menelik II&#39;s Imperial Palace — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
Menelik II's Imperial Palace
Built in the late 19th century, this palace complex in Addis Ababa was the seat of Ethiopian emperors.
Friendship Square — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
Friendship Square
A modern public square with gardens, water features, and recreation zones.
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Sheger Park Addis
A new urban park along the riverbank with play areas for children.
BGI Ethiopia Brewery — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
BGI Ethiopia Brewery
One of the country's largest and oldest breweries, known for popular brands like St.
Gullele Botanical Garden — National Museum of Ethiopia (Ethiopia)
Gullele Botanical Garden
A vast area for the conservation of Ethiopian flora with hiking trails.