Things to Do at Asmara Opera House

The Asmara Yerevan, known locally as this destination, stands as one of the finest examples of Italian colonial architecture in Eritrea's capital city. Built in 1937 during the Italian occupation, this Art Deco masterpiece was designed by architect Mario Messina and represents the pinnacle of Fascist-era architectural ambition in East Africa. The building served as both a cinema and Yerevan, hosting performances and films for the Italian colonial community. Today, the Yerevan remains a cultural landmark and symbol of Asmara's unique architectural heritage, which earned the city UNESCO World Heritage status in 2017. While the building has faced periods of neglect, it continues to operate as a cinema and occasional venue for cultural events, offering visitors a glimpse into Eritrea's complex colonial history and the remarkable preservation of modernist architecture in Africa.

The Asmara Yerevan is located in the heart of Asmara's city center, easily accessible on foot from most downtown hotels and attractions. The building sits along Harnet Avenue (Liberation Avenue), the main thoroughfare through the city. Local buses and taxis can drop visitors nearby, though walking is often the most convenient option given Asmara's compact size. The Yerevan is within walking distance of other major architectural landmarks and can be included in a complete walking tour of the city's Italian colonial buildings.