Frequently Asked Questions About Asmara

Asmara is the capital city of Eritrea, an East African country located on the coast of the Red Sea. The city is known for its rich culture, unique architecture, and historical significance. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Asmara.

1. What is the history of Asmara?

Asmara has a rich history that dates back centuries. The city was under the rule of different empires throughout history, including the Ottoman Empire, Egypt, Italy, and Ethiopia. Asmara became the capital of Eritrea after the country gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993.

2. What is the culture of Asmara?

Asmara’s culture is a blend of different influences from its diverse history. The city is home to people from different ethnicities, including the Tigrinya, Tigre, and Saho. Asmara has a vibrant music scene and hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Asmara Theatre Festival and the Independence Day celebration.

3. What are some of the top tourist attractions in Asmara?

Asmara offers a unique tourist experience, with its distinct architecture and rich history. Some of the top tourist attractions in Asmara include:

The Asmara Opera House

Built-in 1918, the Asmara Opera House has hosted many famous performers, including the Italian opera singer Enrico Caruso. The building boasts a unique blend of Art Deco and Italian architectural styles.

The National Museum of Eritrea

The National Museum of Eritrea is located in the heart of Asmara and offers a comprehensive look into the country’s rich history and culture. The museum displays various artifacts, including traditional Eritrean clothing, tools, and weapons.

The Fiat Tagliero Building

The Fiat Tagliero Building is a unique piece of architecture that showcases the city’s Italian colonial influence. The building was constructed in the 1930s and features a striking futuristic design.

4. What is the weather like in Asmara?

Asmara has a subtropical highland climate, which means that the temperatures are mild throughout the year. The city experiences two seasons, a wet season and a dry season. The wet season runs from June to September, and the dry season runs from October to May.

5. What is the food like in Asmara?

Eritrean cuisine is known for its unique blend of spices, herbs, and flavors. The cuisine features a lot of vegetables, lentils, and flatbread. One of the most popular dishes is injera, a type of pancake made from teff flour, which is usually eaten with stews and curries.

6. What language is spoken in Asmara?

The official language of Eritrea is Tigrinya, and it is spoken by the majority of the population in Asmara. Other languages spoken in the city include Arabic and English.

7. Is Asmara a safe city to visit?

Asmara is considered a safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, visitors are advised to take appropriate safety precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night, keeping valuable items out of sight, and being aware of their surroundings.

8. What is the transportation like in Asmara?

Asmara has a relatively good public transport system, with buses and taxis available throughout the city. Visitors can also rent cars and bicycles to explore the city at their own pace.

Conclusion

Asmara is a city that offers a unique tourist experience, with its rich history, distinct architecture, and vibrant culture. Visitors to the city can enjoy various tourist attractions, try traditional Eritrean cuisine, and explore the city’s public transport system. Asmara is considered a safe city for tourists, and visitors are encouraged to take appropriate safety precautions.

An Insider’s Guide to Asmara

Asmara is the capital city of Eritrea, a small country located in the Horn of Africa, and it is one of the most fascinating and unique destinations in the world. From its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Art Deco architecture to its vibrant local culture, there is so much to see and do here. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore some of the top attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and local history that make Asmara such a special place.

Attractions

Asmara is known for its stunning architecture, both modern and historic, and a visit to the main downtown area provides a great opportunity to explore it. The city’s impressive Art Deco design dates back to the time of Italian colonization, with many buildings still standing as beautiful reminders of the city’s past.

A visit to “Asmara Grande”- a complete collection of buildings located in central Asmara, featuring several museums, complexes, theatres, and government offices, showcases a rich colonial history. Few must-visit buildings in “Asmara Grande” include the Fiat Tagliero Building, designed in the shape of an airplane by Italian Engineer, Giuseppe Pettazzi, and the Art Deco Cinema Impero, one of the oldest movie theatres in the world.

Other than colonial marvels, visitors can also explore Medebar Market, one of the busiest open-air markets in Africa, selling a wide range of products from food to clothing to handicrafts. For a more serene experience, a visit to the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, located on a hilltop overlooking the city, provides a peaceful respite.

Dining Spots

Asmara’s food scene is incredibly diverse, serving up a variety of African, Middle Eastern, and Italian-inspired cuisine.

One popular spot is the Nda Mariam Restaurant, located near the Roman Catholic Cathedral. Famous for its incredible traditional Eritrean cuisine, this charming restaurant is the perfect place to enjoy a scrumptious meal in an authentic atmosphere.

For pizza lovers, one must-visit restaurant is Gusto Pizza, a hip, modern restaurant located just outside Cinema Roma. Here, diners can treat themselves to a range of tasty Neapolitan-style pizzas, homemade pastas, and delicious desserts.

Cultural Experiences

Asmara offers a variety of unique cultural experiences that are both entertaining and enlightening. One of the most popular places to understand Eritrea’s struggle for freedom is a visit to the Eritrean National Museum. You can gain insight into the former colonial rule of Italy as well as Eritrea’s long struggle for independence.

Another fascinating experience is touring the local markets, where visitors can learn about the art of bargaining and perhaps even try their hand at it. The people of Asmara are friendly and welcoming to visitors, and strolling around the city will give you a great chance to get to know some of them.

Local History

Asmara’s history is an amalgamation of influences from various cultures and nations, including Italian colonialism and Ethiopian rule. Today, the city is still grappling with continued attempts to establish itself as a stable, independent country. Visitors can learn about this rich history by exploring various neighborhoods, such as “Tren Biafra” where visitors can get a feel of the city’s multi-layered heritage.

Off the Beaten Path

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path, there are plenty of unique experiences to be had in Asmara. Besides the quintessential locations to visit, visitors can explore the tranquil countryside for a glimpse at rural life in Eritrea. The city also offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking to bird watching to cycling.

Another offbeat destination, Massawa city located on the Red Sea coast is best known for its Ottoman-era Old Town and local coral reefs famous among divers.

Conclusion

Asmara truly has something for everyone. This unique and fascinating city is not to be missed, offering everything from delicious cuisine to rich cultural experiences and stunning architecture. Whether you’re interested in local history or just want to relax and soak up the local atmosphere, a trip to Asmara is sure to be an unforgettable experience.