Massawa, Eritrea’s second-largest city, was its first capital and is one of the country’s oldest urban areas. Known as the “Pearl of the Red Sea,” Massawa’s history as a vital port city makes it a focal point for travelers interested in maritime heritage. Walking through Massawa’s narrow alleyways lined with elegant arcades and grand balconies transports visitors to another world, evoking a sense of timelessness. This atmospheric city serves as a gateway to and from the Red Sea, a maritime corridor that has historically been a crossroads for cultures, religions, and commerce.