Ababa

Ababa is most commonly encountered as the second element of Addis Ababa, the capital and largest city of Ethiopia. In Amharic, Addis Ababa translates as New Flower, with Ababa meaning flower. The name is used in full for the city, while Ababa alone is typically understood as the noun “flower” or as shorthand for the city in informal use.

Geographically, Addis Ababa lies in the central highlands of Ethiopia, at roughly 2,300–2,500 meters above sea level, near the Entoto Mountains. The city was founded in 1886 by Emperor Menelik II and grew into the political and economic center of the country. It hosts the African Union and numerous international organizations, making it a key diplomatic hub in Africa.

Economic and cultural life centers on government administration, services, education, and industry. The city is home to Addis Ababa University and the National Museum of Ethiopia, which houses important archaeological finds such as the famous Lucy skeleton. Bole International Airport serves as a major regional gateway, and Addis Ababa has a domestic transportation network and, since the 2010s, a light-rail system that connects central districts.

Notable landmarks include Holy Trinity Cathedral and the Entoto Hills. The city’s diverse population reflects numerous Ethiopian ethnic groups and languages, with Amharic as the official language and Oromo, Somali, and others widely used.