Ten important skateboard spots in Ethiopia, Africa (2024)
1. Addis Ababa Skatepark
The Addis Ababa Skatepark, located in the capital city, is the first dedicated skateboarding facility in Ethiopia. The park features ramps, rails, and other obstacles, providing riders with a diverse range of options to showcase their skills and enhance their techniques. Skateboarding at the Addis Ababa Skatepark allows riders to connect with the local skateboarding community, participate in events, and enjoy a supportive and inclusive skateboarding environment.2. Meskel Square
Meskel Square, a prominent public square in Addis Ababa, offers skateboarders a spacious and lively skateboarding spot. The open space, smooth pavement, and bustling atmosphere create an ideal setting for riders to cruise, perform tricks, and engage with the local community. Skateboarding at Meskel Square allows riders to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of the city and showcase their skills amidst the energetic ambiance.
3. Piazza
Piazza, a historic neighborhood in Addis Ababa, provides skateboarders with an intriguing urban skateboarding experience. The narrow streets, unique architecture, and bustling markets create a challenging yet rewarding terrain for riders. Skateboarding in Piazza allows riders to appreciate the cultural heritage of the neighborhood, interact with locals, and experience the dynamic atmosphere of the city.
4. Lalibela
Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rock-hewn churches, offers skateboarders a unique and awe-inspiring skateboarding spot. The rocky terrain, ancient structures, and stunning landscapes create an unparalleled setting for riders to explore and skate on. Skateboarding in Lalibela allows riders to combine their passion for skateboarding with cultural immersion and appreciate the historical significance of the site.
5. Gondar Castle Complex
The Gondar Castle Complex, located in the city of Gondar, presents skateboarders with a one-of-a-kind skateboarding experience. The ancient castles, courtyards, and pathways offer riders a blend of smooth surfaces and challenging obstacles. Skateboarding at the Gondar Castle Complex allows riders to appreciate the architectural beauty of the site, connect with history, and enjoy an adventurous skateboarding session.
6. Axum Obelisk
The Axum Obelisk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, provides skateboarders with a unique and iconic skateboarding spot. The tall stone obelisks, historical ruins, and expansive grounds offer riders a combination of smooth surfaces and unique structures to skate on. Skateboarding at the Axum Obelisk allows riders to appreciate the ancient history of the region, connect with local culture, and showcase their skills amidst a visually stunning backdrop.
7. Awasa
Awasa, a city located on the shores of Lake Awasa, offers skateboarders a scenic and serene skateboarding spot. The lakeside promenade, smooth pathways, and stunning views of the lake create a relaxing environment for riders to cruise, carve, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Skateboarding at Awasa Lakeside allows riders to connect with nature, appreciate the tranquility of the lake, and experience a laid-back skateboarding session.
8. Bahir Dar University Campus
The Bahir Dar University Campus offers skateboarders a spacious and vibrant skateboarding spot. The wide pathways, open spaces, and green surroundings provide riders with ample room for freestyle riding, tricks, and creative exploration. Skateboarding at the Bahir Dar University Campus allows riders to enjoy the academic atmosphere, connect with students, and experience the youthful energy of the university environment
9. Entoto Mountain
Entoto Mountain, located near Addis Ababa, offers skateboarders a unique and adventurous skateboarding experience. The mountainous terrain, winding roads, and scenic views create an exhilarating environment for riders seeking a thrilling downhill ride. Skateboarding on Entoto Mountain allows riders to combine their love for skateboarding with outdoor exploration and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Ethiopia
10. Lake Tana Peninsula
The Lake Tana Peninsula, situated near Bahir Dar, provides skateboarders with a picturesque and diverse skateboarding spot. The peninsula's paved paths, lush vegetation, and proximity to Lake Tana offer riders a peaceful and enjoyable skateboarding experience. Skateboarding on the Lake Tana Peninsula allows riders to connect with nature, appreciate the biodiversity of the area, and enjoy a tranquil skateboarding session.
Skateboarding is tribal and most locals are welcoming, but if you're new to a spot, or just passing through, have respect for the locals. Listen. Be smart. Have fun.
A human being
Art can change the world – and everybody is an artist. Those who scribble stickmen. Those who paint chapel ceilings. Those who tattoo biceps. Those who are careful with pigment on canvas. Those who create fantasy characters. Those who paint pet portraits. Those who yarn bomb. Those who write poems on crappy old cardboard.
My art lives on the bottom of skateboard decks. It's designed for you to destroy. For you, the rider, my art may come second to the deck’s ability to perform – and that’s awesome. To me, art comes first. Always.
It’s how I think. It’s who I am. It’s what I am.
A machine
This article has been created with the help of artificial intelligence platforms ChatGPT and Bard. If there are inaccuracies or there are opportunities for improvement, please let me know.
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