Imperial Palace, Addis Ababa, Royal palace in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
The Imperial Palace stands in Addis Ababa and consists of several buildings, including residential areas, halls and chapels, spread across a large compound. The site also includes gardens and administrative buildings that originally served the imperial court.
Emperor Menelik II founded this palace in 1886 as the seat of Ethiopian power. From here he led the successful defense against the Italian invasion, which preserved Ethiopia as an independent country in Africa.
The palace name recalls the imperial era of Ethiopia, when government affairs took place here and ceremonies were held. Today, visitors can walk through gardens where old trees and paths still reveal the original layout.
The compound is now accessible as Unity Park and allows visitors to explore selected buildings and gardens. It is advisable to allow enough time, as the grounds are extensive and include several separate areas.
The Ta'eka Negest church on the palace grounds serves as a mausoleum for Emperor Menelik II, Empress Taitu and Empress Zewditu. Visitors can enter this place and see the tombs of the three rulers who shaped Ethiopian history.
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