Mount Entoto

Mount Entoto is the highest peak overlooking Addis Ababa in Ethiopia. Atop the mount sit the Entoto Maryam Church, Menelik II Museum, and the first palace of Menelik II.

Entoto Maryam Church is painted in the colors of the Ethiopian flag, and was built by Emperor Menelik II and Empress Taitu as a tribute to the Virgin Mary. Note that visitors may not be granted entry inside of the church.

The Menelik II museum houses the personal belongings of the Emperor Menelik II and Empress Taitu, including clothing, crowns, accessories and jewelry, as well as furniture, artifacts, and photographs. Photography is not permitted inside of the museum.

Menelik II’s first palace also sits atop Mount Entoto. Made of simple materials such as mud and wood, the humble but stately first palace was built to overlook the city of Addis Ababa for a better view to fend off enemies.