St. George's Cathedral, Addis Ababa (must see)

St. George's Cathedral is an important Ethiopian Orthodox church with strong ties to the country’s modern history. It was built in the early 1900s to honor Ethiopia’s victory over Italian forces at the Battle of Adwa in 1896. The church is dedicated to Saint George, who is widely respected in Ethiopia and often seen as a protector in times of struggle. From the start, the cathedral was meant to represent both religious faith and national independence.

The building has an octagonal shape, setting it apart from the more common round churches. Thick stone walls and arched windows give it a strong, balanced form, while a central dome rises above the roof. The design blends traditional Ethiopian church forms with European influences from the imperial period, and the many windows allow daylight to enter from several sides.

Inside, the cathedral is arranged mainly for worship. The inner sanctuary is separated and used only by priests, while worshippers stay in the outer areas. The walls are decorated with painted scenes from the Bible and images of saints, made in the Ethiopian Orthodox style with clear figures and bold colors. Some artworks also reflect the church’s connection to important historical events and leaders.

The cathedral has played a role in major national moments, including the coronation of Emperor Haile Selassie in 1930. It is still an active church today, with regular services and religious celebrations. Visitors are usually welcome outside service times if they dress modestly and remain respectful. A short visit helps explain the close link between religion, history, and public life.