Entoto Maryam

The place

Entoto Maryam brings faith, royal history and the highland light of Addis Ababa into one place.

The octagonal church is associated with Emperor Menelik II and Empress Taytu. Its stone walls, painted timber and patterned details stand beside a museum preserving objects connected with the royal household.

I found heritage and ordinary joy in the same afternoon: architecture, a bright dress, a decorated horse and a pause above the city.