St. George's Cathedral

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This Piazza cathedral is one of Addis Ababa's most stunning churches. It was built by Emperor Menelik II to honor his stunning Adwa victory over the Italians in 1896 and is dedicated to St. George, Ethiopia's patron saint, whose icon was carried throughout the battle.

The structure, constructed in the late 19th century and surrounded by trees, is located in the city's center. Additionally, the church served as the House of Solomon's royal church.


THINGS TO DO AT ST. GEORGE CATHEDRAL:

Familiarize yourself with its historical value:

With the aid of Greek, Armenian, and Indian artists, the church was completed in 1911 in a strict neoclassical style and traditional octagonal shape. Emperor Haile Selassie and Empress Zewditu were crowned here in 1916 and 1930, respectively.


Learn about the inspiration:

The structure was designed by Sebastiano Castagna and constructed by Italian prisoners of war who had been defeated at Adwa in 1896. It was named after St. George after the church's ark was brought to the Battle of Adwa against the Italians, which the Ethiopians won.


Get impressive insights by delving into the details of architecture:

The interior's pops of color and artwork easily outshine the building's grey stone exterior. The outer walls of the shrine are covered in paintings and mosaics by the renowned Afewerk Tekle, while portions of the sky-blue ceiling boast gilded stars.


Browse valuable collections:

The Cathedral houses a museum showcasing an imperial throne, weapons used in battles against the Italians, such as curved swords and tridents, and enormous helmets made from lions' manes.

The museum is located on the grounds to the north of the Cathedral.

  • imageDuration Required
    2 hours

Address of St. George's Cathedral

Addis Abeba, Ethiopia

Opening & Closing time of St. George's Cathedral

  • Monday
    07:00-18:00
  • Tuesday
    07:00-18:00
  • Wednesday
    07:00-18:00
  • Thursday
    07:00-18:00
  • Friday
    07:00-18:00
  • Saturday
    07:00-18:00
  • Sunday
    07:00-18:00