Plizio Visual Lab
Yekatit 12 Monument
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
The Yekatit 12 Monument is a significant historical landmark in Addis Ababa, located at Siddist Kilo square, commemorating one of the darkest chapters in Ethiopian history. It was erected to honor the victims of the February 1937 massacre perpetrated by Italian occupation forces. The violence was triggered by an unsuccessful assassination attempt on Marshal Rodolfo Graziani, the Viceroy of Italian East Africa, on February 19, 1937. During the subsequent three days of terror, an estimated 30,000 Ethiopian civilians were murdered by Italian soldiers and blackshirt militias. The monument itself is a tall white obelisk adorned with intricate bronze reliefs depicting the horrific executions and the suffering of the local population. Every year on February 19, a solemn wreath-laying ceremony is held here attended by government officials and survivors. The site stands as a powerful symbol of Ethiopian resistance against colonial oppression and fascist aggression.
- Location: Ethiopia
- Top sights: Hyena View (morning) · Under cliffs · Menelik II Palace
- Nearby: Bishoftu (35 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 15 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 18 | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 12 | 27 | 56 | 90 | 89 | 116 | 239 | 246 | 145 | 34 | 16 | 13 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Yekatit 12 Monument is a memorial honoring the victims of the Graziani massacre during the Italian occupation. The monument is in a public space, freely accessible at any time.
Typical hours
Since the monument is outdoors, it is accessible 24/7. The best time to visit is during daylight hours when the light is good for photos.
Photography
Photography of the monument is allowed and commonly done. Please behave respectfully at this site of remembrance.
Time needed
Visiting the monument typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes. Take time to read the inscriptions and reflect on history.
Combine with
Combine your visit with a walk to nearby Menelik Square or the Ethnological Museum in Addis Ababa. Both offer further insights into Ethiopian history.
Getting there
The monument is located in central Addis Ababa, near Meskel Square. It is within walking distance from many central points or reachable by taxi.
Insider tip
Read up briefly on the Graziani massacre before visiting to better understand the monument's significance. Combine the visit with a walk to the nearby Martyrs' Monument for a complete historical tour.
Geography
Facts
- Commemorates the massacre of February 19, 1937, by Italian forces.
- Located at the Siddist Kilo square near Addis Ababa University.
- The event was triggered by an assassination attempt on Rodolfo Graziani.
- An estimated 30,000 civilians were killed during the three-day purge.
- The monument is a white obelisk featuring detailed bronze reliefs.
- It is a focal point for annual Martyr's Day commemorations in Ethiopia.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Yekatit 12 Monument (9)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does the Yekatit 12 monument mark?
It commemorates the 1937 massacre where thousands of Ethiopians were killed by Italian occupying forces.
Where is the white obelisk located?
It is located in the center of Sidist Kilo Square in Addis Ababa.
Why is the date Yekatit 12 important?
It corresponds to February 19th in the Gregorian calendar, the day the reprisals began.
Who designed the monument?
The monument was designed by Yugoslav artists as a gift from Tito to Emperor Haile Selassie.
Is the square safe for pedestrians?
Yes, it is a busy area near the university, but one should be careful of the heavy traffic.
Yekatit 12 Monument: where is it located?
Yekatit 12 Monument is located in Ethiopia.
Yekatit 12 Monument: what is there to see?
Highlights include Hyena View (morning), Under cliffs, Menelik II Palace.
Yekatit 12 Monument: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Yekatit 12 Monument: why is it worth visiting?
The Yekatit 12 Monument is a significant historical landmark in Addis Ababa, located at Siddist Kilo square, commemorating one of the darkest chapters in Ethiopian history.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Africa
More places in Ethiopia →
Nearby cities
History & landmarks
National Museum of Ethiopia
A prominent museum housing important historical artifacts, including the famous hominid fossil 'Lucy'.
Meyazia 27 Monument
A historic monument in Addis Ababa commemorating the liberation of Ethiopia from Italian occupation.
Holy Trinity Cathedral
A highly ornate Orthodox cathedral that serves as the final resting place of Emperor Haile Selassie.
St. George's Cathedral
An octagonal church in Addis Ababa, noted for its distinct architectural style and historical significance.
Menelik II Monument
An equestrian statue of Emperor Menelik II, celebrating his victory at the Battle of Adwa.
Abune Petros Monument
A statue commemorating Archbishop Abune Petros, an Ethiopian patriot executed during the Italian occupation.
Tiglachin Monument
A prominent memorial dedicated to Ethiopian and Cuban soldiers involved in the Ogaden War.
Jubilee Palace
Built to mark Emperor Haile Selassie's Silver Jubilee, it now serves as the official residence of the President.
Nature
More places
Addis Lion Zoo
A historic zoo especially known for the rare Abyssinian lions.
Unity Park Addis
A large theme park on the grounds of the Imperial Palace with a zoo and museums.
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's Imperial Palace
Built in the late 19th century, this palace complex in Addis Ababa was the seat of Ethiopian emperors.
Friendship Square
A modern public square with gardens, water features, and recreation zones.
🗺️
Sheger Park Addis
A new urban park along the riverbank with play areas for children.
BGI Ethiopia Brewery
One of the country's largest and oldest breweries, known for popular brands like St.
Gullele Botanical Garden
A vast area for the conservation of Ethiopian flora with hiking trails.