Known in Amharic as Kidist Selassie, the Holy Trinity Cathedral is the most significant Orthodox cathedral in Addis Ababa. It is a site of deep spiritual reverence, serving as the official seat of the Orthodox Archdiocese of Addis Ababa and the final resting place of one of the 20th century’s most iconic figures: Emperor Haile Selassie I.
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For travelers in 2026, the cathedral offers a unique window into Ethiopia’s imperial past and its resilient religious traditions.
1. The Architecture: A Fusion of East and West
One of the most frequent searches regarding the cathedral is its architecture. Unlike the traditional circular churches common throughout Ethiopia, Holy Trinity is a square, baroque-style cathedral that blends European and Ethiopian influences.
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The Facade: The exterior features massive copper domes, towering colonnades, and intricate stone carvings. It was designed to commemorate Ethiopia’s liberation from Italian occupation (1936–1941), and the facade is adorned with numerous statues of saints and angels.
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The Stained Glass: Inside, the cathedral is bathed in light from stunning stained-glass windows. These were manufactured in Belgium and depict biblical scenes alongside historical moments, such as Emperor Haile Selassie addressing the League of Nations.
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The Murals: Look up at the ceiling and walls to see murals by the renowned Ethiopian artist Afewerk Tekle. His work depicts the Holy Trinity and various saints in a distinctively Ethiopian style.
2. The Burial Site of Emperor Haile Selassie
The cathedral’s most famous highlight is the Imperial Crypt. Inside the north transept (to the left of the altar), you will find the final resting place of the Emperor and his wife, Empress Menen Asfaw.
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The Sarcophagi: The two massive tombs are carved from solid red granite. The design is Aksumite-inspired, featuring geometrically perfect tiers that represent the power and history of the Solomonic dynasty.
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A Historic Return: Haile Selassie was finally interred here in November 2000, 25 years after his death during the Derg regime. The ceremony was a global event, attended by thousands, including prominent members of the Rastafarian community who revere him as a messianic figure.
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The Cemetery: Outside the main building, the grounds serve as a national cemetery for patriots, high clergy, and famous figures like the British suffragette Sylvia Pankhurst, who was a staunch supporter of Ethiopia.
3. The Cathedral Museum
Don’t leave without visiting the small but rich museum located on the church grounds. It is often cited by travelers as having a more impressive ecclesiastical collection than the National Museum.
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What to see: The museum houses crowns of past emperors, silver-embroidered robes, ancient Ge’ez manuscripts, and 15th-century icons. It also contains the Imperial Thrones used by the Emperor and Empress during church services.
4. Practical Information for 2026
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Location: Near Arat Kilo, right next to the Ethiopian Parliament building.
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Entry Fees: As of 2026, the entrance fee for foreign visitors is approximately 1,500 ETB (about $12–$15 USD), which includes access to the cathedral and the museum.
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Dress Code: This is a sacred site. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). Women are often expected to cover their heads with a scarf before entering the sanctuary.
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Photography: Photography is generally allowed on the grounds, but prohibited inside the cathedral itself unless you have special permission or are part of a guided tour.
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The Best Time to Visit: Arrive early in the morning (around 9:00 AM) to witness the peaceful atmosphere of morning prayers and chanting in Ge’ez, the ancient liturgical language.
The Holy Trinity Cathedral is more than a church; it is a monument to Ethiopian identity and its imperial legacy. Whether you are there for the history of the “Lion of Judah” or the beauty of its stained glass, it is a place of undeniable gravity and grace.