Yekatit 12 monument, Addis Ababa

The Yekatit 12 monument, an obelisk towering in the heart of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, stands as a solemn reminder of a tragic past. This significant landmark commemorates the victims of the February 19, 1937 massacre, known as Yekatit 12 by the Ethiopian calendar, when Italian occupying forces killed thousands of Ethiopian citizens.

Erected in the bustling Sidist Kilo area, the monument is a symbol of Ethiopian resistance and a tribute to the resilience of its people. It was unveiled in 1955 during the reign of Emperor Haile Selassie, as a testament to the nation's struggle against the Italian occupation during the Second Italo-Ethiopian War.

The obelisk is adorned with reliefs and inscriptions that detail the harrowing events and honor those who lost their lives. It serves as a place of reflection and education for both locals and tourists, conveying a powerful message about the cost of freedom and the importance of remembrance.

Open to the public throughout the year, the Yekatit 12 monument is not only a historical site but also a point of reference for many cultural events and gatherings in Addis Ababa. Visitors can quietly walk around the monument, often finding wreaths laid by various groups paying their respects.