A museum that is vivid and vibrant and gives you an insight into Ethiopian ethos, the Ethnological Museum of Adis Abiba is definitely worth your time. It is housed in the former palace of Haile Selassie and present-day university.
The life cycles of different tribes of Ethiopia from birth to death are illustrated in vivid detail. This cultural and artistic hub touches on all aspects of Ethiopian culture from history to religion. The exhibition provides comprehensive information about the people and culture of this interesting country, encompassing everything from childhood games and different ceremonies including marriage to living arrangements. Beginning with ancient history and extending all the way forward to more modern traditions, the histories of people and cultures are all arranged and brought to life with contextual information and priceless artifacts.
You can say objects of every day use in this museum, including wooden pillows, utensils, and fully restored bathroom and bedrooms used by Ethiopia's last emperor Haile Selassie and Empress Menen. The uniform used by Haile Selassie is also on display along with gifts he received from different heads of state.
The upper floor of the museum houses many other culturally important pieces. Walk upstairs to see art pieces depicting the victory of Ethiopia against Italian forces. Several musical instruments from different regions of the country are on display here along with traditional crosses and painting and of krars and kissars. There's also a photo exhibition showcasing the works of two Dutch diplomats who captured the coronation of Haile Selassie on camera along with other aspects of Ethiopia in the 1930s.
Like the National Museum, home to the famous Lucy Mummy, the Ethnological Museum is a highlight on any visit to Addis Ababa. A visit to this museum is an interesting experience and attracts travelers from around the world who want to learn more of Ethiopia's culture and history. Just outside the museum, you see an interesting monument that that looks like a staircase to nowhere. The structure was built during Italian occupation of the country and the steps supposedly represent the tenure of the oppressive rulers. After the occupation ended, the monument was topped by a statue of Ethiopian Lion of Judah to denote victory over the fascist rule.
