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Temples & religious sites

Grand Anwar Mosque

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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

Tickets & tours

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Itineraries including this place

Good to visit alongside

Addis Mercato

Shopping & districts

Addis Mercato

Addis Mercato is a large open-air market in the Addis Ketema district of Addis Ababa. Its lively atmosphere and wide range of goods make it a great place to soak up the local vibe.

0.4 km away

The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Temples & religious sites

The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

This cathedral of the Ethiopian Catholic Church stands in Addis Ababa's Piazza district, built to honor the birth of the Virgin Mary. Regular services and religious events fill its quiet interior, making it a worthwhile stop as a hub of the local faith community.

0.9 km away

St. George's Cathedral

Temples & religious sites

St. George's Cathedral

An Ethiopian Orthodox cathedral at the northern end of Churchill Road in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Its distinctive octagonal structure makes it a striking place to admire the architecture.

1.2 km away

Sebastopol

Heritage & monuments

Sebastopol

A massive cannon cast during the reign of Emperor Tewodros II, named after Sevastopol, the fierce battleground of the Crimean War. Visitors can get an up-close look at this imposing relic, which weighs over six tons.

1.4 km away

Hager Fikir Theatre

Culture & venues

Hager Fikir Theatre

This is regarded as one of Ethiopia's oldest and most iconic theatres. For decades it has served as a stage for a wide range of performing arts, making it one of Addis Ababa's foremost cultural venues.

1.6 km away

Tiglachin Monument

Heritage & monuments

Tiglachin Monument

A monument in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, honoring the Ethiopian and Cuban soldiers who fought in the Ogaden War. Its 50-meter tower and relief carvings make a striking impression.

1.8 km away