Echoes of Royalty: The Imperial Legacy of Emperor Yohannes IV in Mekelle

Perched on the northern edge of old-town Mekelle—now a bustling downtown—the Palace of Emperor Yohannes IV stands as a testament to Tigray’s regal past. Constructed in 1884 by the renowned Italian architect Giacomo Naretti, the palace is a striking example of Neo-Gothic architecture, with grand halls, intricate designs, and an imposing two-story annex that once housed the Emperor’s throne room.

Naretti, who had previously worked for Emperor Yohannes in Debre Tabor, left an enduring mark on Mekelle, also designing the Church of Enda Kidane Mihret. His final resting place was near the round church of Enda Medhane Alem, though sadly, his tomb no longer exists.

Visitors can explore the former imperial residence, now transformed into the Tigray Regional Museum, where history unfolds through relics of Ethiopia’s 19th-century resistance, diplomacy, and royal grandeur. The steep staircases—famously disliked by the Emperor himself—lead to a journey through time, offering an immersive experience of a ruler’s life, his court, and the turbulent era he navigated.

For history enthusiasts and cultural explorers, a trip to this architectural gem is more than a visit—it's an invitation to walk through the corridors of Ethiopia’s past and uncover the stories etched in its walls.