Asmara is the capital city of Eritrea located atop of the highlands. It is suitably planted on the highland plaines that are 2300m above sea level. Asmara is a lovely, attractive and charming city that has a breathtaking beauty for both the visitors and the residents. One of the things that make Asmara unique from the other African cities is, its incredible architectural designs. It is strategically located and well suited for a permanent human settlement. Its visitor-friendly temperature is also another asset the city possesses. It has a sunny temperature with average of 250 C. On the top of all these, Asmara is celebrated for its well-designed city master plan, tidiness, security and hospitability. According to archeological evidences, Asmara has been settled since the pre-Aksumite period. It is believed that there are so many archeological sites existing beneath the city, which can be helpful for further understanding of the pre-colonial history of this region.

Based on the legends and records found in the oldest church of the city- Kidiste Mariam, Asmara was established by the combination of four villages in 1411. These records recall that the women of these four villages discouraged by raids and fighting among themselves held a council meeting and decided to convince their men to unite. Subsequently the men agreed on the idea of merging the four villages into one and called the new village Arbate Asmara (Literally translated as the four (women) agreed). Asmara being strategically located was used as a transit by the caravans that were coming from Massawa. Because of this, Asmara became a commercial center resulting in the growth of its population. Asmara for the first time became administrative center by the time of Ras Alula, who in 1884 transferred his residence on a fortified hill. Consequently, the village grew to some two thousand permanent residences.

When Italy occupied Eritrea, it made Asmara the colony’s capital city transferring it into a modern city. The Italians built roads, constructed several beautiful European residences, administration centers, telecommunication and so on. The policy of the Italian expansionism towards Ethiopia using Eritrea as a spearhead and the influx of many Italian military personals quickened the development of the city. Unfortunately, with the defeat of the Italians by the British and the occupation of Asmara, the development of the city was culminated. During the struggle for liberation, the city was even turned into a “ghost city” but was undamaged unlike the other Eritrean towns.

Since independence, the sweetness and the life of the city are returned and its development has been dramatic. Now Asmara is beautiful and sunny with its combined various architectural designs, bars, dance halls, cinemas, cafes, pensions, hotels, restaurants, shops, a colorful tree-lined streets and so on. The hospitality of the inhabitants makes people feel at home. Above all what makes Asmara likable is its safety. This feature makes Asmara and in general Eritrea unique not only in Africa but also in the world.