The distinct heritage house that remained standing while everything around it was being demolished (to make way for Friendship Park, phase 02, opposite the Abrehot Library) definitely picqued peoples interest. So it was great to learn that the house was transformed into Yimtubezina Museum and Cultural Center (YZ), a unique collection of cultural objects and devoted to creating a living, interactive learning experience through events and exhibitions.
YZ is an independent, private museum and historical entity. This former residence of Woz. Yimtubezinash Habte was constructed in 1892 E.C., by Indian architects and reflects significant architectural, societal, and historical values, combining Ethiopian and Indian traditional architecture from that period. Despite the fact that the house was built during an dominant patriarchal period, where women’s independence and power were both undervalued, this house was built by a strong and determined woman, Yimtubezinash Habte and is just one of only ten houses registered as heritage sites bearing a woman’s name.
The residence passed down through five generations and there were periods of threats of demolition until it was officially established as Yimtubezina Museum and Cultural Center.
YZ has exhibitions on a rotating basis, each lasting 1-4 months. The first temporary
exhibition was “Horsemanship in Ethiopia”.
“From Culture to Creativity” is the fascinating and beautifully curated current exhibition focusing on a century of Ethiopian Jewelry; Tradition, Changes and Continuity.
Be sure to visit this charming museum on your next visit to the Park and learn more about its history and background on the links below. There’s also a small gift shop and cafe on site.
Call +251912964002
(Abel Assefa is the dedicated Director and Chief Curator) Email: info@yzmuseum.org
Follow yz on social media @yzmuseum, Museum No: +251912370058
http://www.yzmuseum.org/