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Museums & galleries

"Red Terror" Martyrs' Memorial Museum

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"Red Terror" Martyrs' Memorial Museum

Overview

The "Red Terror" Martyrs' Memorial Museum honors those who lost their lives under the Derg regime. Opened in 2010, the exhibition includes photographs, personal remains, and torture instruments from that era. Visitors come to gain an unvarnished understanding of Ethiopia's modern political history through historical displays and free guided tours.

Getting There

Located next to Meskel Square in central Addis Ababa, the site is accessible by taxi, minibus, or light rail. Travel from the city centre generally takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic.

Time to Spend

Allow 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the exhibition halls and complete a guided walkthrough.

When to Visit

Morning or early afternoon is practical to avoid peak traffic around Meskel Square. Crowds are generally modest, though small tour groups can temporarily fill individual rooms.

Nearby Attractions

The location allows easy combination with nearby sites:

  • Meskel Square (0.2km): Central public square and transport junction.
  • Sebastopol Cinema (0.2km): Local cinema venue within walking distance.
  • Ethiopia Museum of Art and Science (1.2km): Modern science exhibition space.
  • Ethiopian National Theatre (1.4km): Cultural venue for live performance.

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 "Red Terror" Martyrs' Memorial Museum

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

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"Red Terror" Martyrs' Memorial Museum Nearby stays

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Good to visit alongside

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.

0.2 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.

0.2 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.

1.2 km away

Ethiopian National Theatre

Culture & venues

Ethiopian National Theatre

A performance venue in central Addis Ababa, built as a cinema during the Italian occupation before later becoming a theatre. It still hosts a variety of performances and cultural events worth catching.

1.4 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.

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.

1.7 km away