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Temples & religious sites

Medhane Alem Cathedral

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Medhane Alem Cathedral

Medhane Alem Cathedral

This Ethiopian Orthodox cathedral, completed in 1931, is the largest cathedral in Ethiopia and the second largest in Africa. Its name translates to "Savior of the World." Travelers visit the site to observe its grand architecture and experience the traditions of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church.

Getting There

The cathedral is located within the city of Addis Ababa. From the city center, it is accessible via taxi or ride-sharing services. Depending on traffic conditions, the journey typically takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Visit Duration

Allow approximately 1 to 2 hours to walk around the exterior and explore the interior of the cathedral.

When to Visit

The site can become very crowded during religious holidays and on Sundays during morning services. To avoid the largest crowds, visit during weekdays. Visitors should dress modestly to respect the religious nature of the site.

Nearby Attractions

The cathedral is situated near several other points of interest in the city. You can combine your visit with the following locations:

  • Bantyiketu: 2.9km
  • Sebastopol Cinema: 3.3km
  • "Red Terror" Martyrs' Memorial Museum: 3.3km
  • Meskel Square: 3.5km

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

This place may not appear in the results — some sites are free to enter or sell tickets only at the gate.

Stays near Medhane Alem Cathedral

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Medhane Alem Cathedral Nearby stays

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Good to visit alongside

Bantyiketu

Nature

Bantyiketu

This river runs through downtown Addis Ababa, forming part of the Akaki River basin and carrying water from the city center and surrounding highlands. It's a good place to visit when you want to feel close to nature in the heart of the city.

2.9 km away

Sebastopol Cinema

Culture & venues

Sebastopol Cinema

A cinema in the Arada district of Addis Ababa that opened in 2005 and mainly screens Ethiopian films. It also hosts the Addis International Film Festival, making it a great place to experience the local film scene.

3.3 km away

"Red Terror" Martyrs' Memorial Museum

Museums & galleries

"Red Terror" Martyrs' Memorial Museum

This museum opened in 2010 to honor those who lost their lives during the "Red Terror" under the Derg regime. It displays torture instruments, remains, and photographs of victims, and free guided tours offer a detailed account of that history.

3.3 km away

Meskel Square

Parks & gardens

Meskel Square

Meskel Square is a plaza in downtown Addis Ababa where Ethiopian Orthodox events and festivals are frequently held. Visiting during the Meskel Festival in particular lets you experience the local atmosphere at its liveliest.

3.5 km away

Ethiopia Museum of Art and Science

Museums & galleries

Ethiopia Museum of Art and Science

This science museum, located in a riverside development district in Addis Ababa, opened in 2022. Inside its distinctive circular building, visitors can explore exhibits on science and progress.

4.1 km away

Imperial Palace, Addis Ababa

Castles & palaces

Imperial Palace, Addis Ababa

A palace complex once home to Ethiopia's emperors, comprising several residences, chapels, and auxiliary buildings. Today it serves as the prime minister's residence and office, where visitors can still sense its historic past.

4.3 km away