Fiat Tagliero Building
- The Fiat Tagliero Building is one of the most remarkable examples of Futurist architecture in Asmara. Built in 1938 by Italian architect Giuseppe Pettazzi, the building was originally designed as a service station but resembles an airplane ready for takeoff. The structure features two massive wings extending 15 meters on each side, made entirely of reinforced concrete, without any supporting pillars. This bold design was a technological and engineering marvel of its time.
- During its construction, many engineers doubted whether the cantilevered wings could hold without additional support. However, Pettazzi was so confident in his design that he ordered the wooden scaffolding to be removed, proving that the wings could stand on their own. Today, the building remains intact, showcasing Asmara’s rich architectural heritage from the Italian colonial era. It has become a symbol of innovation, creativity, and modernist ambition in Africa.
- Despite being nearly a century old, the Fiat Tagliero Building remains perfectly preserved, thanks to its sturdy materials and the city’s dry climate. Though it is no longer a functioning gas station, it attracts architecture enthusiasts, historians, and tourists from around the world. Visitors can explore its interior, rooftop, and surrounding areas, learning about its history and significance.
- Listed as part of Asmara’s UNESCO World Heritage status, the Fiat Tagliero Building stands as a testament to architectural daring and vision. Whether viewed in person or in photographs, this structure captures the spirit of modernist design that makes Asmara a unique city in Africa.