Last checked August 6, 2026
Holy Trinity Cathedral (Kidist Selassie) is the most important Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo cathedral in the country, and the burial site of Emperor Haile Selassie and Empress Menen. It’s a genuinely striking building — a blend of Ethiopian and European architectural styles, with extensive stained glass and stone carving.
What to actually expect
- This is an active place of worship, not just a monument — dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and be mindful during services.
- The imperial tombs are a specific draw beyond the architecture itself — Haile Selassie’s reign and its abrupt end in the 1974 revolution are a significant piece of modern Ethiopian history, and the cathedral is where that history is physically present.
- The grounds are worth the visit alone — mature gardens and war memorials sit alongside the cathedral itself.
Entrance fees and opening hours change — check current details when you arrive or through your guide/hotel.