Menelik II Square

Overview

Menelik II Square is a historic square in Addis Ababa, named after Emperor Menelik II. It is a significant cultural and political landmark, surrounded by important government buildings and historical sites.

It is a central point of Addis Ababa's history, where many significant political events have taken place.

Historical Cultural

Location

Address

Menelik II Square, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Neighborhood: Piazza

Coordinates

9.029700, 38.762300

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

October to March

Best Time of Day

Morning

Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

30 minutes

Recommended

1-2 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild

• Flowers in bloom
• Cultural events

summer

Warm to Hot

• Extended daylight hours

autumn

Pleasant

• Harvest season
• Cultural festivals

winter

Mild to Cool

• Holiday decorations
• Christmas celebrations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

No advance booking required
Bring ID
Check weather

What to Bring

essential

ID Comfortable shoes Water

seasonal

Umbrella Light jacket

not allowed

Drones Large bags

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low

• Sun exposure

Medical facilities: First aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Cards

Currency

Ethiopian Birr

Typical Costs

entry Free

parking 50 ETB

food 100-300 ETB

souvenirs 50-500 ETB

Dress Code

Casual, Comfortable shoes, modest clothing, Walking shoes, Inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• Not required
• On-site
• Not applicable
• Not available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Addis Ababa Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Historical information, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafes

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Addis Ababa Bole International Airport

Distance: 35 km

Travel Time: 45 minutes

taxi

800-1000 ETB 45 min

public_transport

50 ETB 1 hour

From City Center

Distance: 2 km

metro

10 ETB 15 min

bus

5 ETB 20 min

taxi

100-150 ETB 10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: It's a central point of the city's history and culture

Historical Significance: Many significant political events have taken place here

Insider Tips

Best views from the central fountain
Local cafes offer great traditional coffee

Local Recommendations

• Try traditional Ethiopian coffee
• Visit the nearby Addis Ababa Cathedral

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Selam

thank_you Ameseganallo

where_is Yachi?

how_much Mashita?

beautiful Metsiho

ticket Tiketi

Guide Languages: Amharic, English

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Morning

Tips: Wide angle for the full view

Result: Great shot of the square and surrounding buildings

#MenelikIISquare #AddisAbaba #Ethiopia

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas Government buildings

flash photography Allowed

commercial photography Permit needed

drone policy Prohibited

tripod policy Allowed with permit

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Addis Ababa Cathedral

Distance: 500m

Walking: 7 min

Type: Historical

St. George's Cathedral

Distance: 800m

Walking: 10 min