Temples & religious sites
Grand Anwar Mosque
Grand Anwar Mosque
Located in the Mercato market district, this is the oldest and largest mosque in Addis Ababa. Built in the 1920s. Visitors go here to observe its historic architecture and experience the intersection of religious practice and the surrounding commercial activity of the city's largest market.
Getting There
The mosque is situated in the Mercato area, west of the city centre. Most travellers reach the site via taxi or ride-sharing services from the central business district. Depending on traffic conditions, which can be heavy in this district, the journey typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.
Time Allocation
Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours for a visit. This provides enough time to view the exterior architecture and observe the atmosphere of the immediate surroundings.
When to Visit
The area is consistently crowded due to the adjacent market. To avoid the heaviest congestion, visit during weekday mornings. Be mindful of prayer times, as the mosque and its immediate vicinity become significantly more crowded during these periods.
Nearby Attractions
Because of its location, the mosque can be combined with other sites in the district:
- Addis Mercato (0.4km): The expansive market surrounding the mosque.
- The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (0.9km): A nearby religious site.
- St. George's Cathedral (1.2km): One of the city's most prominent cathedrals.
- Sebastopol (1.4km): A local neighborhood known for its commercial activity.
Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors