Imperial Palace, Massawa
Imperial Palace
A domed palace on Taulud Island, built as an Egyptian governor's residence in the 19th century and later a winter retreat for Haile Selassie; its shell still bears war damage.
The Imperial Palace was first built in the 19th century as a governor's residence under Egyptian rule. It was remodelled during the Italian period and later became the winter residence of Ethiopian Emperor Haile Selassie, known for its white domes and arcaded façade. It was bombed during the war in 1990 and still shows bullet-scarred walls, most striking when seen from the causeway. The interior is generally closed to visitors, and you can only photograph the exterior. Military and government facilities are nearby, so check photography rules before taking pictures.
Opening hours
Exterior viewing only
Nearby sights
- Former Banco d'Italia Building
- Massawa Old Town (Batse Island)
- Sheikh Hanafi Mosque
- Massawa Tank Memorial
- Mosque of the Companions
- Northern Red Sea Regional Museum
- Green Island
- Gurgusum Beach