Keren was originally a trading settlement on the Ethiopian frontier, laying on an arid highland plain between the Ansaba and Barka rivers. The settlement owned its importance to its position on the trade route between Massawa and Sudan.
Keren, derived from the Bilen and Tigrigna words meaning “rocky” or “mountainous,” is surrounded by rugged mountains and lush valleys. Its strategic location made it a prized possession for successive powers, including the Turks, Egyptians, and Italians.
Keren is described as the “heart of Eritrea.” It has a completely different feel to both Asmara and Massawa, making a visit to Keren necessary for a more-wholistic view of Eritrea. So without further ado, here are the top things to see and do in Keren. This is the largest mosque in Eritrea.
Top Attractions and Things to Do in Keren, Eritrea - That Travelista
From Arabic to Zulu—“Keren” goes by many names. Discover other places named “Keren”. Explore places such as Gazabanda and Ad Hashhel. Delve into Asmara, Massawa, Nakfa, and Senafe. “I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.” —Robert Louis Stevenson.
Keren Tourism: Tripadvisor has 84 reviews of Keren Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best Keren resource.
Keren, Eritrea: All You Must Know Before You Go (2026) - Tripadvisor
Sitting in the picturesque foothills of northern Eritrea, Keren is the country's second-largest city and regional capital of the surrounding districts. Approximately 146,000 people belonging to various tribes and ethnic groups call the city home.
From its bustling markets to its historic sites, Keren is a place where past and present seamlessly blend together. One of the most striking features of Keren is its architecture. The city is home to beautiful colonial-era buildings, many of which date back to the Italian occupation.