Former Castle Museum in the Capital of Ethiopia

It’s not hyperbole to say that Ethiopia is home to many of ancient and best museums in the world. Among those the beautiful Haile Selassie’s former palace tops the list.  It’s the first university museum of the country. The history of this museum takes back to the early days of 1950. From the glamorous graders to fountains of the now Addis Ababa University’s main campus is the fascinating royal museum. A time at this finest museums in Africa will take your breath away.

It used to be known by the name, Genete Leul Palace meaning “the Prince’s paradise” Haile Selassie’s former palace museum’s beautifully opulent interiors are the most lavish mansions surrounding the university. The building was once the palace and it remains a showcase for Ethiopia’s and the emperor’s spectacular artefacts. The museum also displays the kings dazzling collection of gleaming clothing and belongings. The three floor baroque museum quarters are packed with antique traditional furniture, precious jewelries and sophisticated art presentations.

The stunning view begins from the artistically designed entrance gate and wide compound which houses the Museum. Even if you are not a museum enthusiast, this royal collection gallery is worth your time. Atop the gate small lion of Judah sculpture is found as the symbol of Ethiopian monarchy. Inside there are so many artefacts and handicrafts from the royal family. The exhibition gives a great insight into Ethiopia’s ancient cultures, crosses, musical instruments and way of life. The museum displays cycle of life from birth to death, bed room of the late emperor and his possessions.

The captivating set of collections of amenities within the entrance hall leads to the beginning of the exhibition depicting the history of the palace and the largest language studies John F. Kennedy Memorial library. First floor of the contemporary museum takes to a whole new different adventure with exclusive artefacts and handicrafts. The unique setup of the museum layout shows poems, nomadism, traditional medicine, wedding ceremonies, childbirth, war, pilgrimages, hunting gears and culture.

The exhibition is a great place to observe the diversified Ethiopian cultures. Other rooms show the preserved bedroom, bathroom and changing room of Emperor Haile Selassie including the bullet hole in the door during the 1960 coup d’état to the emperor ruling. The 2nd floor presents religious artifacts the collection of drawings, traditional musical instruments enchanted with colors while the third floor ends the exploration with death and life after that with interesting portraits and tombs.

On your way out stop at the long standing London double-decker bus which is turned into a cafe to enjoy cheaper soft drinks and fresh snacks to restore your energy from the tour at the glories museum.

By Eden Sahle

Leave a Reply