Red Terror Martyrs’ Memorial Museum

The basics

If exploring the Red Terror Martyrs’ Memorial Museum, keep in mind that some of the items on display include instruments of torture and other disturbing items. Going with a guide is very helpful if you want context to what you're seeing. While museum-run guided tours are sometimes available, you may prefer to visit with your own private guide as part of an Addis Ababa tour.

Things to know before you go

• The Red Terror Martyrs' Memorial Museum is wheelchair accessible.

• Admission to the museum is free and free tours are sometimes available.

• The museum deals with some horrific parts of history and may not be suitable for children or sensitive people.

How to get there

The Red Terror Martyrs' Memorial Museum is located on the eastern end of Meskel Square, just across from the Estifanos/Meskel Square light rail station. You can take the light rail, a city bus, join a tour that visits the museum, or hire a taxi to drop you there.

When to get there

The museum is open daily throughout the year, except on select holidays. Tuesdays and Wednesdays get the fewest crowds, but you are unlikely to have to wait in long lines no matter when you visit. Note that Meskel Square, where the museum is located, can get busy when certain events take place, such as the annual Meskel Festival.

What was the Red Terror?

In 1974, Ethiopia's final imperial ruler, Haile Selassie, was overthrown by the Derg, a military dictatorship government that continued to rule Ethiopia until 1987. The Ethiopian Civil War ensued: From 1976 to 1978 the Derg carried out a political repression campaign against other competing groups who were vying for power over the country. The campaign was violent, and included crimes such as torture and mass executions of innocent civilians, as detailed in the museum.