Emba Derho


This small village on the road to Keren is within the 25km limit from Asmara within which travellers can move freely without permits, and the foothills that surround it make for a nice wandering day trip. An archaeological dig near the village was the origin of a collection of metal beads, earthenware pottery and glassware, some of which is now on exhibit in the National Museum.

Take bus 18 (nfa2) from the square in front of Enda Mariam Orthodox Cathedral.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

2. Central Market

6.85 MILES

North of Harnet Ave, the sprawling Central Market is one of Asmara's major attractions. The best time to visit is early on Saturday, when people come in…

3. Capitol Cinema

6.85 MILES

This cinema building, now abandoned except for a few pool tables in a gallery off the lobby, was constructed in 1932.

4. Medebar Market

6.86 MILES

Duck up northeast to soak up the atmosphere of the Medebar Market. No doubt you'll be awestruck the minute you enter this mind-boggling place. It's an…

5. Italian Cemetery

6.92 MILES

Final resting place to generations of Italians, this lovely little cemetery is still used by the few immigrant families that remain. It's uphill off…

6. Asmara Orthodox Cemetery

6.93 MILES

A calm overgrown tract just outside the city centre; the quiet chapel on a hilltop above the cemetery also offers stunning views of the skyline.

7. Tank Graveyard

6.94 MILES

Part junkyard, part memorial, the ruins of military vehicles from around the country have been dragged to this open field in the years since heavy…

8. Former Governor's Palace

6.95 MILES

The best place to start exploring the city is at the Former Governor's Palace, which stands majestically at the western end of Harnet Ave. Built in 1897…