Christian travellers
Christianity became the faith of the Aksumite kingdom under King Ezana in the 4th century, making Ethiopia one of the oldest Christian nations, and about two thirds of Ethiopians are Christian today. Almost every denomination is here: the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, Greek Orthodox and Armenian churches, Catholic parishes, and Protestant churches from Lutheran (Mekane Yesus) and Kale Heywet to Seventh-day Adventist, Anglican and Pentecostal. Church life shapes the calendar, from fasting days to Timkat and Meskel, and the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela are still in use. More on Wikipedia.
- Orthodox churches are everywhere in Addis Ababa; landmarks include Holy Trinity Cathedral, St George's Cathedral and Bole Medhane Alem.
- For services in English, try the International Evangelical Church near Bole, the Mekane Yesus churches or St Matthew's Anglican Church; ask your hotel for the nearest English Mass.
- In Orthodox churches cover shoulders and knees, women cover their hair, and shoes come off before the inner church.
- Orthodox Christians fast (no animal products) on most Wednesdays and Fridays and before Easter, so vegan "fasting food" is easy to find.
Churches in Addis Ababa451 mapped
From OpenStreetMap, so not every place is listed. Tap a dot for directions.
Google Maps has more places, photos and opening hours; search "mosque", "church" or "synagogue" near you.
Questions people ask
What is the main religion in Ethiopia?
Most Ethiopians are Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Christians or Muslims. There is also a large and growing Protestant (P'ent'ay) community, and smaller Catholic and other groups.
What should I wear to visit an Orthodox church in Ethiopia?
Cover your shoulders and knees, and women should cover their hair with a scarf (netela). You'll also remove your shoes at the entrance of the inner church.
Can tourists visit mosques in Addis Ababa?
Yes, visitors are welcome at most mosques outside service times if they dress modestly and behave respectfully. Wear long sleeves and long trousers or a skirt (women cover their hair), remove your shoes before entering, and avoid Friday midday prayers unless attending.
Can I take photos inside churches in Ethiopia?
Ask first. Orthodox churches often charge a camera fee, flash isn't allowed, and you should never photograph people praying without permission.
Are there English-language church services in Addis Ababa?
Yes. Some Mekane Yesus churches hold services in English, the International Evangelical Church in the Bole area is an English-language Protestant church, and your hotel can point you to the nearest English Catholic Mass.
When do people fast in Ethiopia?
Orthodox Christians fast (no animal products) on most Wednesdays and Fridays and during longer seasons, especially the 55 days before Easter. Muslims fast from dawn to sunset during Ramadan. Restaurants stay open, but be considerate about eating in front of people who are fasting.