Medhane Alem Cathedral, Addis Ababa

Medhane Alem Cathedral is the largest Ethiopian Orthodox cathedral in the country and an active place of worship. The original church was completed in 1931 during the reign of Emperor Haile Selassie I. The much larger structure seen today was built later as part of a major expansion, completed around 2004–2005. The name Medhane Alem means “Savior of the World.” Services are especially crowded on Sundays and major religious holidays.

The cathedral uses a basilica-style layout instead of the traditional circular design. It is wide, with a large central nave, domes, and tall columns inside and outside that support the roof. The structure combines modern construction with Ethiopian Orthodox traditions, focusing on space and function rather than decoration.

Inside, the cathedral is open and spacious, with columns dividing the interior into prayer areas. The walls and ceilings feature religious paintings and stained glass showing biblical scenes, angels, and saints, sometimes linked to Ethiopian artist Afewerk Tekle. The inner sanctuary is reserved for priests, while worshippers remain in outer areas. Visitors may enter outside service times or observe quietly, with modest dress required, head coverings for women, and shoes removed before entry.