The Ethiopia National History Museum stands as a beacon of Ethiopia’s dedication to preserving its ancient tales and artifacts. Ethiopia’s historical legacy is etched in the very archives of human existence, as it ranks among the world’s oldest countries.
From the ancient days of the Bible, tracing back over 3 million years, Ethiopia is a treasure trove for archaeological research, an endeavor that seems boundless in its possibilities.
Ethiopia is truly unique in numerous aspects. It holds the distinction of being one of the only two African nations untouched by colonialism. Additionally, it boasts its own distinct calendar, time system, and alphabet. For instance, Ethiopians follow a 13-month calendar and march to the rhythm of their own clock.
Navigating the vibrant streets of downtown Addis Ababa, one can readily appreciate the beauty of many Ethiopians, often adorned with splendid curly hair. To satiate my curiosity about Ethiopia’s ancient narratives, I embarked on a captivating tour of the National History Museum. Amidst the array of fascinating exhibits, what particularly caught my eye were the captivating paintings depicting Christian history and the intricate African map, gracing the museum walls.
Surprisingly, all the descriptions in this history edifice are in English and Amharic languages.
As I strolled through the streets, I found that English was not widely spoken, which came as a surprise. However, considering the significant number of tourists in Ethiopia, it’s no wonder.
This post is dedicated to sharing my experience at this renowned tourist hotspot. A visit to the National History Museum was both enlightening and delightful, making it a must-see destination where you’re sure to enjoy your time.”
What is inside the Ethiopia national history museum?
Similar to many museums I’ve explored in various countries, Ethiopia’s National History Museum is housed in a massive building situated on the periphery of a spacious enclosed park.
As I entered through the main gate, which was a mere 3-minute stroll from the bustling main road, my attention was immediately drawn to the statues of historic icons scattered throughout the park-like surroundings.
The presence of trees and vibrant flowers lining the pavement didn’t quite evoke a strong sense of walking into a historical setting. However, the prominent military statues and displays of weaponry triggered my curiosity, making me ponder the victories and resilience of Ethiopia, a country that remarkably evaded the grip of colonization. This curiosity only intensified my desire to step inside and explore further.
From the main door to the upstairs section, there were banners with bolded words emphasizing the history of Ethiopia. Some of them read:
Million years of life and culture in Ethiopia.
Ethiopia in the fossil landscape of Africa.
Human evolution: the Ethiopian Record.
Prehistoric cultures.
And the World became African.
Early Hominids in Africa etc.
Ethiopia’s stance on the theory of human evolution is quite evident in the exhibits within the museum. Each section provides thorough historical explanations, complete with detailed information about the items on display and their respective dates.
Treasures inside the museum
The museum truly overflowed with historical artifacts, enveloping me in a nostalgic feeling akin to being back in a history classroom. Despite forgetting many of the dates on the prehistoric chart, the experience was captivating.
One particularly fascinating section showcased a grand, golden-like throne used by ancient kings, exuding an aura of regal history. The stone sculptures were equally intriguing, each displaying its unique artistry. In another section, old wooden sculptures meticulously carved into human forms highlighted the incredible dedication and patience of our ancestors.
However, there was a section in the well-lit museum that I found somewhat eerie. It featured skeletons meticulously arranged from fingernails to the head, forming a human-like silhouette. These remains belonged to both people and animals, leaving me still in awe of the remarkable work done by archaeologists to unearth and present such intricate findings.
Ethiopia is a historic haven.
Read more about historical places to visit in Ghana, Malaysia, Cameroon, and Laos and how to prepare for your travel abroad here.
