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Pont Allemand d'Édéa: A Bridge Through Time

A historic German-built bridge in Edea, Cameroon, offering passage and panoramic views of the Sanaga River.

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The Pont Allemand d'Édéa, or German Bridge of Edea, is a historic bridge built in 1911 by the Germans over the Sanaga River in Edea, Cameroon. Once called the Japoma Bridge, it's a vital part of the N3 national route and a landmark representing German colonial-era architecture.

A brief summary to Pont allemand d'Édéa

  • R44C+2F4, Edea, CM

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Edea Waterfalls for a full day of sightseeing.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing some walking to reach and explore the bridge.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Edea, the bridge is accessible by foot. Head east towards the Sanaga River. The bridge is located near the Edea Hydroelectric Dam. Follow local roads, keeping the river in sight. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes from the city center.

  • Public Transport

    Moto-taxis and regular taxis are readily available in Edea. A short taxi ride from the Edea city center to the bridge will cost approximately 500-700 CFA francs. Alternatively, minibuses (known locally as 'clandos') are an affordable option for getting around the town.

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Discover more about Pont allemand d'Édéa

The Pont Allemand d'Édéa, also known as the German Bridge of Edea, is a steel arch bridge constructed in 1911 by the Gutehoffnungshütte of Oberhausen. The bridge spans 160 meters over the Sanaga River and was the largest in Africa at the time of its erection. It was initially called the Japoma Bridge. Before being shipped to Cameroon, the bridge was assembled and tested in Germany. It was then disassembled and transported by boat to Cameroon. The vertical columns starting at the arch grille are used to suspend the roadway. Until the early 1980s, it served as the only passage point over the Sanaga River for trains, vehicles, and pedestrians. During the 1980s, it was the sole crossing for the Transcameroonian railway, vehicles, and pedestrians, all sharing a single lane. Its strategic importance was evident during World War I. Today, the bridge is a pedestrian and cycle path, offering a unique vantage point to view the Sanaga River and the surrounding industrial town of Edea. It is near the Edea Hydroelectric Dam and provides access to aluminum and bauxite processing facilities.

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