Maekel Region

Religious sites in Asmara

Asmara’s religious architecture reflects a unique blend of colonial and traditional styles within its UNESCO-listed center. This list includes the 1938 Al Khulafah Al Rashidin mosque, known for its Rationalist design and Carrara marble, and the Neo-Romanesque Saint Joseph's Cathedral, completed in 1922. These landmarks, alongside the prominent Orthodox cathedrals of Enda Mariam and St. Sillasie, represent the city's diverse spiritual heritage and architectural history.

Reinhard Dietrich / CC0

St Mariam

Enda Mariam Cathedral is an Eritrean Orthodox church in Asmara, Eritrea. The cathedral is located on Arbate Asmara Street.

Al Khulafah Al Rashidin

Built in 1938, this mosque features a square minaret and a facade of Carrara marble. It combines Islamic styles with Italian Rationalist architecture and serves as a central landmark in the marketplace area.

Kidane Meheret Church

An Eritrean Catholic church following the Ge'ez rite, notable for its large central dome.

St. Sillasie Church

A traditional Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo church located in Asmara.

Saint Joseph's Cathedral

A Roman Catholic cathedral built in 1922 in the Neo-Romanesque style. It features a 57-meter-tall bell tower and an interior decorated with frescoes and Carrara marble.