The Cinema Impero, opened on Liberation Avenue in 1937, is the best-preserved of Asmara's many 1930s cinemas. The facade is a confident piece of late Art Deco, with a deep portico, ribbed pilasters, and the original neon sign restored. Inside the auditorium seats around 1,800 and retains its Italian stalls, balcony, and proscenium.
The cinema is still functioning, mostly showing local and Indian films in the evenings. The lobby — with its terrazzo floor and chrome details — is easily looked into during business hours; ushers are often willing to let visitors put their head into the auditorium between screenings.