Doual'art
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La Pagode: A Glimpse into Douala's Colonial Past
Discover La Pagode in Douala: A historical landmark blending German & local architecture, reflecting Cameroon's rich colonial past and cultural heritage.
La Pagode, also known as the Palace of King Bell, is a historical landmark in Douala, Cameroon. Built in 1905 during the German colonial period, this unique structure blends German and local architectural styles. Once the residence of King Auguste Manga Ndumbe and later his son Rudolph Douala Manga Bell, it stands as a symbol of the region's rich history and cultural heritage.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to La Pagode
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
2MVP+8VR, Douala, Bonanjo, CM
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Getting There
Walking
From the General Leclerc statue outside the central post office in Bonanjo, walk approximately 500 meters along Avenue de l'Indépendance. La Pagode will be on your right. Walking is a good way to see other landmarks in the area.
Public Transport
Take a bus heading towards Bonanjo from any of Douala's bus stations. Look for buses labeled 'Bonanjo' or those stopping near Avenue de l'Indépendance. The fare is around 200 CFA. From the bus stop, walk towards Avenue de l'Indépendance; La Pagode will be a short walk away.
Taxi
Hail a taxi from anywhere in Douala and tell the driver you want to go to La Pagode in Bonanjo. Agree on the fare before starting the ride; a short trip within the city center should cost approximately 1500 CFA. The driver will take you directly to La Pagode.
Local tips
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Visit during daylight hours to capture the best photographs of the building's unique architecture.
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Explore the Bonanjo district, where La Pagode is located, to discover other examples of colonial architecture.
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Engage with local guides to learn more about the history of La Pagode and the Bell family.
Discover more about La Pagode
La Pagode, or the Palace of King Bell, is an architectural gem located in Douala's Bonanjo district. Constructed in 1905 by the Germans for King Auguste Manga Ndumbe, it showcases a unique blend of German and local architectural styles. The name 'La Pagode' was given to the palace by French writer Louis-Ferdinand Céline, who stayed in Douala in 1916-17 and described it in his novel 'Voyage au bout de la nuit' due to its resemblance to Asian temples.King Auguste Manga Ndumbe, who ascended to the throne in 1897, was a wealthy and influential figure. He established extensive cocoa and palm oil plantations and invested heavily in real estate in Bonanjo. La Pagode served as his residence until his death in 1908. His son, Rudolph Douala Manga Bell, inherited the palace and reigned until 1914 when he was arrested and executed by German authorities for opposing their land expropriation policies.Today, La Pagode remains an iconic symbol of Douala's history and cultural pride. Although it is no longer a residential building, it is still owned by the Bell royal family and has been occupied by various businesses since the 1920s. In 2006, doual'art, a contemporary art gallery, installed a sign designed by Sandrine Dole that presents a historical image of the building and a description of its history. While the site is currently closed to the public, its exterior continues to captivate visitors.
A brief summary to La Pagode
Use La Pagode as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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