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Asmara Capital City: A UNESCO World Heritage Gem

Introduction

 

Asmara, the capital of Eritrea, is a city like no other in Africa. Nicknamed “La Piccola Roma” (Little Rome), it is renowned for its well-preserved Italian Art Deco and Modernist architecture. In 2017, UNESCO declared Asmara a World Heritage Site, recognising its unique urban design that blends European modernism with African traditions. Beyond its architecture, Asmara is a city of culture, coffee, and charm — making it a must-visit destination in East Africa.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Top Attractions in Asmara

 

 

1. Fiat Tagliero Building

 

An iconic Art Deco service station shaped like an airplane, symbolising Asmara’s modernist heritage.

 

 

2. Cinema Impero

 

One of the world’s best-preserved Art Deco cinemas. Its grand façade and interior still host regular screenings.

 

 

3. Asmara Cathedral (Cathedral of St. Joseph)

 

A striking Lombard Romanesque-style church with a tall bell tower offering panoramic city views.

 

 

4. Medebar Market

 

A vibrant market where scrap metal is recycled into everyday tools, cooking pots, and household goods — a fascinating glimpse of Eritrean ingenuity.

 

 

5. Asmara Opera House

 

A beautiful blend of Italian and Eritrean culture, still hosting performances.

 

 

6. National Museum of Eritrea

 

Showcasing Eritrea’s archaeological, cultural, and independence history.

 

 

7. Tank Graveyard

 

An open-air “museum” of tanks, artillery, and vehicles left behind after the independence war.

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Café Culture

 

Asmara is famous for its Italian-style café culture. Espresso machines imported decades ago are still in use, producing some of the best coffee in Africa. Popular spots include:

 

  • Bar Royal – a local favourite.

  • Casa degli Italiani – historic social club.

  • Alba Café – perfect for people-watching.

 

Don’t miss the traditional Eritrean coffee ceremony, a ritual that brings people together.

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Food & Drink

 

Eritrean cuisine reflects a fusion of African and Italian influences:

 

  • Injera with tsebhi (flatbread with spicy stews).

  • Pasta and pizza, legacies of Italian colonial rule.

  • Asmara beer, brewed locally.

 
Shopping

 

  • Shuq Market: Fresh vegetables, spices, and colourful fabrics.

  • Indigenous crafts: Handwoven baskets, jewellery, and traditional clothing.​​​​​

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Where to Stay

 

  • Albergo Italia – historic colonial hotel.

  • Crystal Hotel – modern comfort in the city centre.

  • Africa Pension – budget-friendly guesthouse.

 

 

Best Time to Visit

 

Asmara sits at 2,325 metres above sea level, giving it a cool, pleasant climate year-round. The best months are October to March, when days are mild and evenings crisp.

 

 

Travel Tips

 

  • Currency: Eritrean Nakfa (ERN). Bring USD or euros to exchange.

  • Language: Tigrinya, Arabic, and English widely spoken.

  • Safety: Asmara is considered very safe, with low crime rates.

  • Photography: Ask before photographing people or government/military sites.

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