Mount Entoto

We took a nice 45 minute drive up to the Entoto Mountains, the highest mountains in Addis and site of Menelik's former capital, which provides amazing views of Addis. While we were driving up the mountain we noticed young and old women, as well as some children, bringing Eucalyptus branches down the mountain to their homes for firewood. Most of these wood bundles weigh around 50 pounds! Some people have donkeys that help them carry the wood, but the majority of the women have only their backs to carry this wood. It is truly an incredible site! As we drove up the mountain the smell of Eucalyptus was so sweet and refreshing. Some people refer to this area as the "lungs of Addis." It was a gorgeous drive!

Located on top of the Entoto Mountain was a beautiful museum which displayed artifacts of the history of Menelik the II and Selassie. At the end of the presentation the guide looked to us and said "this is not only our culture but now your culture too", Vivi couldn't help but get tears in her eyes. It was a very tender moment, we feel blessed to be here to experience everything in abundance. He bowed in respect and we did the same.

Next to the museum is the first church of Addis Ababa, Entoto Maryam Church, which hosted Menelik's coronation in 1882. Behind the church is the very historical place where Menelik II resided and built his palace, this is also where Menelik II and Queen Taitu founded Addis Ababa. It was wonderful to walk around the area, observing the intricate detail on the church, as well as enjoying the fresh air and unbelievably beautiful landscape and view of Addis.

Entoto Maryam Church

 

Menelik's Palace

       "Happiness always looks small while you hold it in your hands, but let it go, and you learn at once how big and precious it is." ~Maxim Gorky