Ethiopia through its Emperors over the years, had created lifetimes and legacies of legends. How best to package this and open up this treasure to the world than by the preservation of the very places and spots from where these Emperors led the Empire? In merging the history and legacies of Ethiopian rulers and tourism, UNITY PARK was born.
Menelek II lived and ruled Ethiopia from this National Grand Palace, alongside members of the Royal Family. The Govt thought it wise to bring life to this place and further tell the story of the people’s history, present and future. Major attractions at this place are the Royal Palaces and the Banquet Hall which hosted all State Banquets and Ceremonial occasions including graduation ceremonies of the then Haile Selassie University.
A tour of the accessible portions of the Palace (Ethiopia is not giving you access to everything) brings to vivid imagination, what life was like in the time the Emperors ruled. Life-size figures of Emperor Menelik II and Haile Selassie can be found in the Banquet Hall and Royal Palace respectively. With digital and graphic displays bursting forth with classic videos of the events of yesteryears, it felt like time travel to the past.
Haile Selassie was a well-known lover of animals and could be seen in pictures with various pets such as dogs, cheetahs and lions (these pets were royalties in their time). It was only befitting that a zoo, comprising of animals indigenous to Ethiopia was added to make this park echo with nature. It was an arena for Ethiopia to display its finest varieties and species of birds (flamingos, ostriches, Africa-crowned cranes, glossy ibis, pelicans, white-faced whistling ducks, pelicans, etc). Terrestrial animals were not left out as there were places for White Lions, East African Lions, Cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, meerkats, hyenas, etc.
The landscaping that was done to house, feed and have these animals on display was a display of art, safety and nature. With a visible security presence and playful atmosphere, the environment is a Visitor’s delight.
To be continued!
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