Palace of Haile Selassie


Two-and-a-half kilometres south of the Martyrs Memorial, northeast of town, is Bezawit Hill. Its summit holds a former palace of Haile Selassie, which isn’t open to visitors and can’t be photographed. Viewpoints both in front and behind offer panoramic views over the lake, river and town. They’re great at sunset. No public transport comes near here.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Martyrs Memorial Monument

1.86 MILES

Just past the bridge is a large Martyrs Memorial Monument dedicated to those who died fighting the Derg. Its fountain cascading down to the Blue Nile is…

2. Main Market

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If you can tear yourself away from the lake, visit the large and lively main market. It’s busiest on Saturday – market day – when people stream into town…

3. Blue Nile Bridge

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4. St George Church

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5. Fish Market

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6. Main Mosque

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Bahir Dar's largest mosque and an important local landmark.

8. Outlet of the Blue Nile

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The Blue Nile outlet, a 20-minute boat ride east of Bahir Dar, has far greater geographical significance than it does natural beauty, although there's…