All photo Courtesy goes to Yeabsira Eshetu (IG: Jember Productions)

Entoto, found 17km North of Addis Ababa in Ethiopia is a fascinating place with a deep cultural heritage and stunning hilltop views, inviting visitors to explore its ancient charm and scenic beauty.

Nostalgia took me back to the second grade where I had an educational trip to Entoto and there I saw the king and queen’s crowns, their clothes, shoes, and grave site. As of the last 2 or 3 years, the Entoto park has undergone a remarkable modernization project, now boasting numerous leisure spots, including a museum housing intricate storytelling, and arts and crafts by talented Ethiopian artists, making it a must-visit destination.

The images that we will explore below, at first might seem like a painting but when looking at them closely they are far from a painting. The artists instead of using a brush and a paint, they employed wood carver to create these beautiful and stunning works of art.

Indulge in the exquisite and thought-provoking pieces of art below, each carrying its own unique message.  

A Metal Sculptor by Amen Badeg, who utilizes thrown away metal to create beautiful sculptures.

Art by Unknown, this is a wood art made by using a black paint as a base and then carving the wood to create a figure. This artwork offers a glimpse into the daily life of a rural Ethiopian woman burdened with responsibilities, from caring for her children and husband to fetching water from a nearby pond or lake. The portrayal evokes a sense of her selflessness, as she appears deep in contemplation amidst the weight of her duties.

Art by Unknown, this art beautifully captures the essence of life's profound journey, encompassing themes of love, family, pain, loss, and the intricacies that resonate deeply with our own human experiences. 

Art by Unknown, this art depicts a typical rural life in the region, probably Afar where there are camels. 

Art by Unknown, this artwork evokes a poignant atmosphere, reflecting the inevitability of death—an experience none of us wish to encounter. It portrays the spectrum of emotions, from great despair to contemplation, as we witness some weep while others stand, reflecting on the life that has passed, as the coffin is lowered six feet under. For me, this art serves as a powerful wake-up call, reminding me to confront the reality of losing a loved one, an undeniable part of life where no one lives forever.

Art by Unknown, transporting us to 1896, this artwork delves into a pivotal historical event where Emperor Menilik II (the one wearing a white scarf on a white horse) faced Italian deception and attempted colonization of Ethiopia. The emperor along with other noble officials rallied all Ethiopians to unite against the common enemy. It is unfortunate that such a kind of unity in Ethiopia hasn’t been seen beyond that era.

Art by Unknown, this artwork portrays a young man holding a flute, a common sight in rural Ethiopia, where boys, often shepherds or farmers, use flutes as a source of entertainment.

Art by Unknown, this artwork captures a traditional practice of mediation, where elders come together to reconcile disputing parties. The scene portrays the elders sitting around while the two parties embrace, symbolizing resolution and harmony.

Art by Unknown, this artwork depicts a solemn church ceremony.

Art by Unknown, this picture starkly portrays the harsh reality of countless people being displaced and tragically losing their lives.

Through these images, Entoto reveals itself not only as a place of breathtaking beauty, but also as a living canvas of Ethiopia’s history, artistry, and spirit — where tradition and creativity meet in perfect harmony.