Courthouse of Douala: A Colonial Legacy

Explore Douala's Courthouse: A historic landmark showcasing colonial architecture and the city's judicial heritage.

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Courthouse

The Courthouse in Douala, Cameroon, is an architectural landmark in the Bonanjo district. Built in 1931 during the French Mandate, it exemplifies colonial architecture and serves as the Court of Appeal of the Littoral region. Its historical significance and proximity to local attractions make it a point of interest for visitors.

A brief summary to Courthouse

2MVP+GJ5, Rue Kitchener, Douala, Bonanjo, CM

Local tips

Visit during the golden hour for the best lighting to photograph the Courthouse's architecture.
Explore the Bonanjo neighborhood surrounding the Courthouse for local markets and eateries.
Learn about the building's history through the urban sign installed in 2006, which features historical images and descriptions.

Getting There

Walking

From the Douala Maritime Museum, head southwest on Rue Kitchener. The Courthouse will be on your left, approximately a 5-minute walk. Look for the large, colonial-style building.
Public Transport

From Gare de Bessengue (Bessengue Station), take a local bus towards Bonanjo. Alight at a stop near Place du Gouvernement and walk along Rue Kitchener until you reach the Courthouse. The bus fare is approximately 300 XAF.
Taxi

From Douala International Airport (DLA), a taxi to the Courthouse in Bonanjo will cost approximately 3,500 - 5,000 XAF, depending on traffic and negotiation with the driver. The journey typically takes 30-45 minutes. Negotiate the fare before starting the ride.

Discover more about Courthouse

Located in Douala's Bonanjo neighborhood, the Courthouse is a testament to Cameroon's colonial past. Constructed in 1931 under the French Mandate, the building showcases Art Deco and neoclassical architectural styles. It originally served as a court for the native population with local chiefs acting as judges during German colonization. Today, the Courthouse houses the Court of Appeal of the Littoral region. Its grand façade, adorned with intricate detailing, reflects the historical and cultural influences that have shaped Douala. While the interior may not be open for tours, the exterior provides a captivating glimpse into the city's rich heritage. The surrounding area is vibrant, with markets, shops, and local eateries, offering visitors an immersive experience of Douala's daily life. The Courthouse stands as a reminder of Douala's evolution and its importance as a pivotal port city in West Africa. Its location allows for easy exploration of nearby attractions such as the Douala Maritime Museum and local markets. The building was expanded in 2000 with two additional wings. In 2006, an urban sign was installed to highlight the building, displaying a historical image and description.