- Address: Mekele, Tigray Region, Ethiopia
- Working hours: from 8:30 to 17:30; Weekends - Mon and Fri
In the north of Ethiopia is the city of Makela, the main attraction of which is the castle of Emperor Johannes IV (also pronounced "Johannis"), who ruled the country from 1872 to 1889.
In the north of Ethiopia is the city of Makele, whose main attraction is the castle of Emperor Johannes IV (also pronounced "Johannis"), who ruled the country from 1872 to 1889. Today the castle has a museum whose visitors can see the attributes of the imperial power of Ethiopia of the XIX century and learn more about the history of the country in that period.
A bit of history
In the seventies of the XIX century, Emperor Johannes moved the capital of the state to Makel. By his order, a castle was built, which became the official residence of the emperor. He served his master until his death in 1889.
It can be said that the castle is part of a single complex, which also includes a number of temples - the Emperor Johannes, being a convinced Christian, ordered the construction of several temples around his residence.
The Museum
There is a collection of things used in the everyday life of the Emperor Johannes - his dress and other clothes, furniture (including the throne), photographs, imperial regalia. Visitors can see the emperor's bedroom. In addition, the museum has an exhibition of military equipment.
From the roof and the tower of the castle you can see a beautiful panorama of the city. Very beautiful landscaped area around the palace - here are broken flower beds, trees are planted.
How to visit the castle?
The castle of King Johannes is temporarily closed for reconstruction. Soon it will open its doors to tourists and will, as before, receive visitors daily, except Mondays and Fridays, from 8:30 to 17:30. Getting to Makel will most likely be an airplane - direct flights from Addis Ababa fly 7 times a day daily, the journey takes 1 hour 15 minutes. You can get to the city by car in about 14 hours.