Keren
ከረን
Eritrea's second-largest city, with a Monday camel market, Second World War cemeteries and the Mariam Dearit shrine in a baobab tree, making it a classic day trip from Asmara.
ከረን lies about 90 km northwest of Asmara, roughly two hours by car, at an altitude of about 1,400 metres. It is a market town where the Bilen, Tigrinya and other ethnic groups live together. Every Monday morning, the camel and livestock market outside town is the highlight, where crowds trade camels and goats in an authentic atmosphere. In the centre you will find old Italian-style streets, an arcaded market and silversmith workshops. The Commonwealth and Italian war cemeteries from the 1941 Battle of Keren are well kept. North of town, the Mariam Dearit shrine, built into the hollow of a huge baobab tree, is visited by local worshippers. Foreign visitors must obtain a travel permit from the Ministry of Tourism before leaving Asmara. A hired car or a group tour is recommended, and it is a same-day return trip.
Opening hours
Open all day; camel market on Monday mornings
Nearby sights
- Filfil Green Belt
- Tank Graveyard
- Fiat Tagliero Building
- Bar Zilli
- Asmara Theatre
- Medebar Market
- Harnet Avenue
- Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary