Arat Kilo - Image 1
1 / 10

Arat Kilo Addis Ababa

4.6
·57 reviews·Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

A historic Addis Ababa intersection featuring significant monuments and a modern underground passage, blending past and present.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

May 5th Annually

Witness the Victory Day celebration

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Arat Kilo - Image 1

Arat Kilo Addis Ababa

Best Time

May 5th Annually

Witness the Victory Day celebration

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Addis Ababa intersection featuring significant monuments and a modern underground passage, blending past and present.

4.6
(57 reviews)

"A smart design that blends history with modern convenience, making a busy intersection accessible and engaging."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the History

The monuments are rich in history. Take time to appreciate their significance and capture them respectfully.

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Underpass

Don't miss the modern underground passage with shops and cafes – a smart upgrade to the busy roundabout.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Yekatit 12 Monument

Yekatit 12 Monument

A solemn tribute to Ethiopians who perished during the 1937 massacre by fascist Italy. A powerful reminder of resilience.

Victory Monument (Miyaziya 27 Square)

Victory Monument (Miyaziya 27 Square)

Commemorates Emperor Haile Selassie I's triumphant return and Ethiopia's victory over Italian occupation.

Modern Underground Passage

Modern Underground Passage

A smart, modern upgrade featuring shops, cafes, and elevators, making this busy intersection more accessible.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Understand the History

Arat Kilo is more than just a roundabout; it's a historical landmark. The Yekatit 12 Monument commemorates a tragic massacre, while the Victory Monument celebrates Ethiopia's triumph over fascist occupation. Understanding this context enriches your visit.

Navigating the Area

Arat Kilo is a busy intersection. Recent upgrades have improved pedestrian flow with an underground passage featuring businesses and coffee spots. Be mindful of traffic when crossing and utilize the new infrastructure.

Best Times

When
May 5th Annually
Why
Witness the Victory Day celebration
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Experience local life before peak hours
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Enjoy the ambiance and illuminated monuments
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Yekatit 12 Monument, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 📍🌍 Opened in 1955 by HIM Emperor Haile Selassie I to commemorate the victims of the massacre of Addis Ababa, which started on the 19th February 1937 at the hands fascist Italy. During this brutal episode over 30,000 Ethiopians lost their lives in the course of a few days in the capital city. The fascist Italians then turned towards important monaster...
@houseofhismajesty
305 likes • 7.6K views

📸 Capture the History

The monuments are rich in history. Take time to appreciate their significance and capture them respectfully. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Underpass

Don't miss the modern underground passage with shops and cafes – a smart upgrade to the busy roundabout. Reddit

A view of the beautiful new flower. Konjo Addis Ababa. Yene bate ethiopia hagare! 🇪🇹✝️😍 #addisababa #bole #aratkilo #ethiopia #amharic #oromo #tigray #amhara #oromifa #tigranya
@dwluckyiii
206 likes • 4.2K views
Arat Kilo .Addis Ababa Ethiopia . Sami pic.
hailemariam728
0 likes • 132 views

🚗 Be Mindful of Traffic

Arat Kilo is a major intersection. Stay alert when crossing and use the designated pedestrian areas. Instagram

☕ Grab a Coffee

The new underpass offers several coffee spots to relax and people-watch. Reddit

This was in the apartment I had for 2 years in Arat Kilo in Addis Ababa Ethiopian
bornoffire77
13 likes • 722 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the History

The monuments are rich in history. Take time to appreciate their significance and capture them respectfully. TikTokInstagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Underpass

Don't miss the modern underground passage with shops and cafes – a smart upgrade to the busy roundabout. Reddit

🚗 Be Mindful of Traffic

Arat Kilo is a major intersection. Stay alert when crossing and use the designated pedestrian areas. Instagram

☕ Grab a Coffee

The new underpass offers several coffee spots to relax and people-watch. Reddit

🗣️ Learn the Stories

Research the history of the monuments beforehand to fully appreciate their importance. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(57 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Arat Kilo for its historical significance, particularly the Victory Monument and Yekatit 12 Monument, and appreciate the modern upgrades to the roundabout, including the convenient underground passage with shops and cafes. Some find it a busy intersection, but the historical context and new infrastructure are generally well-received.

"Visited to commemorate our Ethiopian Patriots and btw the new upgrade to tge roubdabout is really nice. Remember the steel bridge we had over the streets with unsanitary condition, well this felt like i was going to the subway built under the streets with a lot of business centres, coffee spots and an elevator on 3 sides of thd street. Really smart design."

tewodros wondwossen

"The Victory monument or Miyaziya 27 Square is erected to signal the triumphant entry of Emperor Haileselasie l and Ethiopian patriots to Addis Ababa by May 5/ 1941 or Miyaziya 27/ 1933 E.C after a five years brief occupation of the country by the fascist force. On May 5 annually the victory day celebrated here with the appearance of the head of state, Ethiopian patriots, and a police orchestra."

Mohammedkabir Dawud Mohammed

"A monument to honour the patriots of the war with the Italians - very prominent at a very busy roundabout."

Hoosain Narker

What People Like

Rich historical monuments
Modern underground passage
Convenient coffee spots

What People Dislike

Busy intersection

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Arat Kilo is a central and well-known intersection in Addis Ababa. You can easily reach it by taxi or ride-sharing services. Many local buses also pass through this area. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Arat Kilo is a major hub for public transportation in Addis Ababa. Numerous bus routes converge here, making it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike. Instagram

The intersection has undergone recent upgrades, including an underground pedestrian passage with shops and elevators. Utilize these facilities to cross safely and conveniently. Reddit

While Arat Kilo itself is a busy roundabout, nearby areas and commercial centers like Ambassador Mall may offer parking. It's often easier to use taxis or ride-sharing. Instagram

Yes, you can walk around the area, especially within the new underground passage. However, be cautious when crossing the main road due to heavy traffic. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the monuments at Arat Kilo, including the Yekatit 12 Monument and the Victory Monument, are open to the public and do not have an entrance fee. Reddit

Arat Kilo is a public space and intersection, so it's accessible at all times. However, the businesses within the underground passage will have their own operating hours. Reddit

Yes, Arat Kilo is accessible at night. The monuments are often illuminated, offering a different perspective. Businesses in the underpass will have their respective closing times. Instagram

No, there are no tickets required to visit the monuments or the public areas of Arat Kilo. Reddit

While there aren't official tours specifically for the roundabout itself, many tour operators in Addis Ababa include Arat Kilo and its monuments in their city tours. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed at Arat Kilo. You can capture the monuments and the bustling city life. Be mindful of people's privacy when taking photos. Instagram

The Victory Monument and the Yekatit 12 Monument are prime subjects. The modern underground passage also offers interesting architectural shots. TikTokInstagram

There are no specific public announcements regarding drone photography restrictions at Arat Kilo, but it's always advisable to check local regulations and be respectful of the area. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light for photography. Evening can be dramatic with the monuments illuminated. Instagram

Yes, you can take photos inside the underground passage, capturing the modern design and the businesses within. Reddit

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, the newly upgraded underground passage at Arat Kilo features several coffee spots and small eateries. Reddit

You can find local Ethiopian coffee and snacks within the Arat Kilo underpass. For a wider variety of dining options, explore the surrounding neighborhoods like Piassa. InstagramReddit

The underground passage has several coffee spots, perfect for a quick break or to soak in the local atmosphere. Reddit

The businesses in the underpass are generally reputable. It's always good practice to observe hygiene standards and choose busy establishments. Reddit

While Arat Kilo itself focuses on local offerings, the broader Addis Ababa city center, accessible by a short taxi ride, has a wide range of international restaurants. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Arat Kilo offers a blend of historical learning and modern convenience for families. The Victory Monument can be a great starting point to discuss Ethiopian history and resilience with children in an accessible way. The new underground passage is also a hit with kids, offering a novel experience with its shops and the novelty of an 'underground street'. Reddit

While there aren't dedicated playgrounds, the open spaces around the monuments can allow for some running around. Consider visiting during less crowded times to make the experience more comfortable. Bringing snacks and water is always a good idea, though the underpass does offer some food and drink options. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For those fascinated by Ethiopia's past, Arat Kilo is a must-visit. Dedicate time to understanding the narratives behind both the Yekatit 12 Monument and the Victory Monument. Researching the events they commemorate beforehand will greatly enhance your appreciation. TikTokInstagram

Consider visiting on May 5th to witness the Victory Day celebrations, if your travel dates align, for a truly immersive historical experience. Even outside of this date, the monuments themselves are powerful storytellers. The modern underground passage, while new, also represents a layer of the city's evolving history. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Urban Explorers

Arat Kilo presents an interesting case study of urban development. Explore the modern underground passage with its array of businesses and cafes, a stark contrast to the historical monuments above. Reddit It's a great spot to observe daily life and grab a coffee while people-watching. Reddit

Take time to appreciate the traffic flow and the integration of the new infrastructure with the existing urban fabric. The area around Arat Kilo is a dynamic part of Addis Ababa, offering a glimpse into the city's blend of tradition and progress. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Significance of Arat Kilo

Arat Kilo is a name that resonates deeply with Ethiopian history. The area is dominated by two significant monuments that tell crucial stories of the nation's past. The Yekatit 12 Monument stands as a somber memorial to the over 30,000 Ethiopians who lost their lives during a brutal massacre by fascist Italy in 1937. It's a place for reflection and remembrance of a dark chapter in Addis Ababa's history. TikTok

In stark contrast, the Victory Monument, also known as Miyaziya 27 Square, celebrates Ethiopia's triumph and resilience. Erected to mark the triumphant return of Emperor Haile Selassie I and Ethiopian patriots to Addis Ababa on May 5, 1941, after five years of Italian occupation, this monument symbolizes national pride and liberation. Victory Day is still celebrated here annually with significant national presence. InstagramReddit

These monuments are not just structures; they are living testaments to Ethiopia's struggle, sacrifice, and ultimate victory, making Arat Kilo a historically charged location.

Modernizing a Historic Hub: The Arat Kilo Upgrade

Arat Kilo, while steeped in history, has also embraced modernity. The recent upgrade to the roundabout has transformed a once challenging intersection into a more pedestrian-friendly and functional space. The most notable feature is the underground pedestrian passage, which has significantly improved safety and convenience for those navigating the busy area. Reddit

This modern underpass is more than just a tunnel; it's a vibrant hub. It houses a variety of business centers, coffee spots, and shops, offering visitors and locals a place to rest, refuel, and shop. The inclusion of elevators on multiple sides further enhances accessibility, making it easier for everyone to traverse the area. Reddit This thoughtful development blends the historical significance of Arat Kilo with the practical needs of a growing capital city, creating a unique urban experience.

You may also like