A walk through history: Visiting newly renovated National Palace Museum

The newly renovated National Palace Museum has opened its doors to the public, offering a rare and immersive glimpse into the country’s imperial legacy, political evolution, and architectural grandeur. Located at the heart of Addis Ababa, the Museum stands as a monumental space that fuses Ethiopia’s past with its present, inviting visitors to explore the historic corridors of power that once shaped the country’s destiny.

The National Palace, originally constructed in 1950’s to mark Silver Jubilee of Emperor Haile Selassie I, has long symbolized the sovereign might of Ethiopia. For decades, it served as the epicenter of the country’s political leadership—from the era of monarchy to the Derg regime, and through to the establishment of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

The Palace has now been transformed into a world-class museum following extensive renovations. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), the restoration project aimed not only to preserve the historical and cultural integrity of the site but also to democratize access to this national treasure. By opening it to the public, the government has taken a bold step in availing Ethiopia’s heritage more accessible for education, reflection, and inspiration.

Walking through the grand halls and lush gardens of the palace, visitors are taken on a journey that spans centuries. The museum exhibits a curated collection of historical artifacts, rare photographs, official documents, regalia, and furnishings that once belonged to Ethiopia’s rulers. Each room tells a story-from the Emperor’s private chambers to the opulent reception halls that once hosted world leaders.

The restoration of the National Palace was inaugurated four months ago in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and high level government officials.

During the inauguration ceremony, the Prime Minister underscored that the restoration of the palace is a significant step in preserving Ethiopia’s history and cultural legacy, Office of the Prime Minister stated in social media post.

The restoration efforts initiated by the Premier, beginning with the transformation of the Grand Palace-what is now Unity Park-have continued with the revitalization of this iconic landmark.

Last week, the newly renovated National Palace Museum officially opened its doors to the public, following four months of trial operations.

Accordingly, the Museum within its premises houses an extensive collection of historical artifacts, including ancient vehicles and zoological exhibits, alongside quality restaurants and wellness spas to enrich visitors’ experiences.

Head of the National Palace Mitku Deresa highlighted the museum’s important role in Ethiopia’s development, saying, “The National Palace Museum is not only a cultural landmark but also plays a significant part in our efforts to alleviate poverty.”

Accordingly, the Museum will be open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily, except Tuesdays. Admission fees are set at 300 birr for regular entry and 1,000 birr for special tickets.

Revenue generated from visitors will support the completion of various national heritage and development projects across the country, it was learnt.

More importantly, interactive displays and multimedia installations enhance the visitor experience, offering deeper context to the political, cultural, and diplomatic milestones that have shaped modern Ethiopia. Particularly moving are the exhibits dedicated to key events such as the struggle against colonial invasion, the fall of the monarchy, and the nation’s journey to a federal democracy.

The renovation work has also restored the Palace’s unique architectural elements, blending Ethiopian design motifs with European neoclassical influences. Its walls, floors, and ceilings have been meticulously preserved or refurbished to reflect their original splendor, while the surrounding gardens-spanning over 40 hectares-have been landscaped to reflect the diverse flora of Ethiopia.

The Unity Park, adjacent to the Palace compound, complements the Museum’s narrative with zoological exhibits, traditional pavilions, and art installations, making the entire visit both educational and recreational.

Therefore, the Ethiopian National Palace Museum now stands as a major cultural and tourist attraction. For Ethiopians, it is a space for reconnecting with a shared history, encouraging national pride and dialogue. For international visitors, it offers an insightful introduction to the resilience, complexity, and richness of Ethiopia’s political and cultural heritage.

In an age when nations are striving to reclaim and reinterpret their past, the opening of the Palace Museum marks a bold and progressive step forward. It demonstrates that history, when made accessible and inclusive, can become a powerful tool for unity, education, and nation-building.

Meanwhile, the Addis Ababa City Administration is undertaking a 44‑kilometer riverside development initiative aimed at rehabilitating the capital’s polluted and degraded river systems, according to the Addis Ababa City Environmental Protection Authority.

Authority’s Chief Executive Officer Dida Diriba, told local media that comprehensive studies conducted by universities; and the Authority has revealed that many of the city’s small rivers have lost their natural ecological character due to increasing pollution.

“In response, we are implementing a 44‑kilometer riverside development project to restore and protect these rivers,” Dida said. He noted that the initiative includes the construction of public recreational spaces, sanitation facilities, children’s playgrounds, sports areas, and urban parks along the riverbanks-designed to promote both environmental protection and urban livability.

In parallel with the development project, regulatory measures are also being enforced to ensure long-term sustainability. Deputy Director of the Addis Ababa Code Enforcement Authority, Nigatu Dagnachew, announced that a new River Development and Pollution Prevention Regulation has been enacted.

The regulation imposes financial penalties ranging from 2,000 to 1 million birr on individuals and institutions found discharging pollutants into rivers.

In doing so, the City Administration hopes the combined efforts of infrastructure development and strict regulation will revitalize the capital’s waterways, improve public health, and create greener urban spaces for residents.

Moreover, these riverside projects complement Addis Ababa’s sweeping modernization efforts-such as the multi‑phased Corridor Development projects launched since late 2022. The ongoing corridor initiative spans hundreds of kilometers of upgraded roads, pedestrian walkways, bike lanes, green pockets, sports facilities, and smart‑city infrastructure. One notable corridor, the Mexico–Sar Bet route, was inaugurated by the Prime Minister in mid‑2024 and is already reshaping the city’s landscape.

These corridor upgrades have revitalized aging neighborhoods, introduced modern drainage and utilities, and improved mobility for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. The current riverside project furthers this vision, extending beautification efforts to the city’s waterways-creating cohesive green corridors that enrich urban life while protecting natural assets.

In sum, these initiatives illustrate Addis Ababa’s holistic push to modernize infrastructure, elevate environmental standards, and transform into a sustainable, livable capital for its residents and visitors.

BY TEWODROS KASSA

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 27 JUNE 2025

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