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Statue of Charles Atangana: A Yaoundé Icon

Honoring a complex legacy: The Statue of Charles Atangana in Yaoundé's vibrant Quartier du Lac.

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The Statue of Charles Atangana in Yaoundé commemorates a significant Ewondo leader who played a crucial role during Cameroon's colonial period. The statue, located in the Quartier du Lac, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into the nation's history and a place for relaxation and reflection.

A brief summary to Statue of Charles Atangana

  • VG5C+94J, Yaoundé, Quartier du Lac, CM

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
  • Engage with local vendors nearby to experience authentic Cameroonian culture.
  • Take some time to relax in the surrounding area, which is ideal for people-watching.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Victoires, walk east along Avenue de l'Indépendance. Turn left onto Rue Joseph Atemengue, then turn right onto Avenue Marchand. The Statue of Charles Atangana will be on your left, in front of the Ministry of Transport. The walk is approximately 10 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From the Yaoundé Central Post Office, take a shared taxi heading towards Quartier du Lac. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Ministry of Transport. The Statue of Charles Atangana is located in front of the Ministry. Public transport costs approximately 350 XAF.

  • Taxi

    From the Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport, a taxi ride to the Statue of Charles Atangana will take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated fare is between 4,000 and 6,000 XAF. Taxis are readily available at the airport.

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Discover more about Statue of Charles Atangana

The Statue of Charles Atangana stands as a prominent landmark in Yaoundé, honoring Charles Atangana (c. 1880 – 1943), the paramount ruler of the Ewodo people. Born Ntsama, he later took the name Karl after being baptized as a Roman Catholic. Atangana's early life saw him learning German language, history, and geography at a mission school. He became an important figure during the German colonial era, serving as an interpreter and negotiator. The statue itself portrays Atangana in a dignified pose, symbolizing strength and leadership. The surrounding area in Quartier du Lac is a vibrant hub where people gather to relax, socialize, and appreciate the city's heritage. The statue serves as a reminder of Cameroon's complex history and the figures who shaped its trajectory. Charles Atangana's legacy is complex. He was seen as a collaborator by some, working closely with the German colonial administration. However, he also played a role in the early urbanization of Yaoundé. After his death, his story became part of Beti folklore, with storytellers recounting his tale in lengthy oral poems and songs. Though largely forgotten for a time, nationalist scholarship after Cameroon's independence resurrected his story, leading to the naming of Charles Atangana Avenue and the erection of this statue.

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