| Project Detail |
The AFD is helping to finance the restoration of the National Palace and its park, as well as the transformation of the site into a museum. The opening of the doors to the public, for the first time in history, is planned for 2024.
CONTEXT
Following the request of the Ethiopian government , France has been committed since 2019 to supporting the authorities in the management and promotion of its rich historical and cultural heritage, of which the National Palace is a part.
This iconic government building was the final residence of Emperor Haile Selassie. After his overthrow in 1974, the palace was abandoned for several years, then used as a presidential residence and state reception venue. It has never been opened to the public.
The building is neoclassical in style, with a strong Art Deco influence. The bas-reliefs on the main façade illustrate the history of Ethiopia. With the surrounding gardens, it constitutes a major heritage site, of great cultural , historical and aesthetic interest still unexploited to this day. The numerous collections of art and historical objects that it houses reinforce this museographic potential.
DESCRIPTION
The National Palace is intended to become a major tourist destination in the capital. The project focuses on showcasing the site and its collections according to international standards, through three main actions:
The restoration of the National Palace, its collections and part of its park, as well as the transformation of its basement into a museum for the permanent imperial collections, the construction of a new reception building for visitors and the development of spaces open to the public are planned;
The development of a scientific and cultural programme (including for the Emperors Carriage Collection Museum) adapted to the narrative and image associated with the Palace, and inclusive for all types of audience;
Strengthening the heritage institution, in order to put in place adequate means for the management of the palace, with a sustainable economic model, functional governance and human capacities adapted to each of the functions of a cultural institution accessible to the public. |
