Addis Abeba Travel Guide, Ethiopia

Addis Abeba, Ethiopia is often spelled Addis Abeba, and is the largest city in Ethiopia, as well as its capital. It has a unique status of begin both a state and a city. It is called the African capital, due to its diplomatic, political, and historical significance for the rest of the continent. There are over 80 nationalities in this city, and each speaks its own language. There are many religions represented here as well, including Christian, Jewish, and Muslim.

The city was built in 1886, before this time it was constantly moving its place, and now has a population of about four million people. The city was founded at the foot of Mount Entoto. This city has had a very difficult history, with events such as the Second Italo-Abyssinian War. When the Italian Army was defeated after occupying Addis Ababa from 1936-1941, there were a million Ethiopians dead from mustard gas.

Ethiopia is where some people believe human kind originated. Archeological discoveries, such as Australopithecine Lucy, a humoid fossil, were discovered in this area. Many scientists believe that humans spread forth on the earth from what is not Addis Ababa over 100,000 years ago. The above mentioned skeletal remains are housed in Addis Ababa at the Ethiopian National Museum.

Addis Abada is home to many fine museums and cultural centers. Visitors from around the world travel here to experience Ethiopia and its culture. The large Merkato market is a great place for shopping and the city even has its own racetrack. There is an abundance of great nightlife, such as clubs, bars, and restaurants. The city even has a salsa bar.

If you are considering traveling to Addis Abada, you will be pleasantly surprised at the weather, as well. It seldom gets above 75 F or drops below 50 F. The high elevation of the city allows for these even temperatures.

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