Introducing Massawa

Though only about 100km to the east of Asmara, Massawa could not be more different from the capital. Entering the old town, you could be forgiven for thinking you’re in Zanzibar or Yemen, and it’s pure joy to explore the alleyways and streets flanked by low whitewashed buildings, porticoes and arcades.

Sadly, Massawa was all but flattened during the struggle for independence, and many visitors are shocked by the derelict state of a number of historical buildings. Restoration has started but the process is slow due to lack of funds.