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Ancien Siège de la Woermann Linie: A Glimpse into Douala's Colonial Past

Explore Douala's maritime past at the Ancien Siège de la Woermann Linie, a historic landmark reflecting the city's colonial heritage and architectural blend.

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The Ancien Siège de la Woermann Linie, located in Douala's Bonanjo district, stands as a reminder of the city's maritime history and German colonial past. Built in 1927 as the headquarters for the Woermann Linie shipping company, its architecture reflects a blend of European and local influences. Today, it houses the services of the Délégation Provinciale du Développement Urbain et de l'Habitat.

A brief summary to Ancien Siège de la Woermann Linie

  • 264 Rue de la Monte Piquet, Douala, Bonanjo, CM

Local tips

  • Visit during the late afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Bonanjo area to experience local markets and eateries.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the landmark.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Ancien Siège de la Woermann Linie is located at 264 Rue de la Monte Piquet in the Bonanjo district. From many points in Bonanjo, it is easily accessible by foot. ориентируясь на Place du Gouvernement, head towards Rue de la Monte Piquet. The building is located a short walk from the courthouse.

  • Public Transport

    Public transport options in Douala include buses and taxis. From major transport hubs like Gare de Bessengue, take a taxi or bus heading towards Bonanjo. Ask to be dropped off near Place du Gouvernement or the courthouse, from where the Ancien Siège de la Woermann Linie is a short walk. A short taxi ride within the city center typically costs around 500-1000 XAF.

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Discover more about Ancien Siège de la Woermann Linie

The Ancien Siège de la Woermann Linie, or former headquarters of the Woermann Line, is a historical landmark in Douala, Cameroon, that offers a glimpse into the city's colonial and maritime past. Constructed in 1927, the building served as the headquarters for the Woermann Linie, a German shipping company that played a significant role in the region's trade and development. The Woermann Linie established its presence in Cameroon Town (later Douala) in 1868, during the economic boom in the Gulf of Guinea. The company's influence grew, and it facilitated trade between European merchants and the inner parts of the country. In 1884, the Douala chiefs signed a treaty with representatives of Woermann and other German firms, leading to the establishment of a German protectorate. The Woermann Linie left Cameroon in 1914 but returned in the 1920s, constructing its headquarters in 1927. The building's architecture reflects a blend of European and local styles, showcasing the colonial-era influences prevalent in Douala at the time. Its imposing size and design served as a symbol of the Woermann Linie's ambition to regain its position in the local market. Today, the building houses the services of the Délégation Provinciale du Développement Urbain et de l'Habitat, a provincial delegation for urban development and housing. Located in the Bonanjo district, the Ancien Siège de la Woermann Linie is a reminder of Douala's rich history and its role as a key port city in Central Africa.

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