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Monument Nachtigal: A Glimpse into Douala's Colonial Past

Explore the historical significance of Monument Nachtigal in Douala, a tribute to German explorer Gustav Nachtigal and Cameroon's colonial legacy.

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The Monument Nachtigal in Douala, Cameroon, commemorates Gustav Nachtigal, a German explorer who played a key role in establishing German Kamerun in 1884. The monument stands as a reminder of Cameroon's colonial history and the impact of European exploration on the African continent.

A brief summary to Monument Nachtigal

  • 279 Rue Victoria, Douala, Bonanjo, CM

Local tips

  • Visit the monument at sunset for a beautiful photo opportunity as the golden light casts a warm glow over the structure.
  • Engage with local guides to learn more about Gustav Nachtigal's travels and the broader context of his explorations.
  • Explore the surrounding Bonanjo district for a taste of authentic Cameroonian cuisine and local culture.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From many points in the Bonanjo district, the Monument Nachtigal is easily accessible by foot. Simply head towards Rue Victoria. The monument is located at 279 Rue Victoria. As you walk, observe the architecture and the bustling atmosphere of this central Douala neighborhood.

  • Public Transport

    Taxis are a common mode of transport in Douala. Inform the taxi driver that you want to go to Monument Nachtigal at 279 Rue Victoria in Bonanjo. Agree on the fare before starting your journey; expect to pay around 1,000 to 2,500 CFA francs depending on your starting location.

  • Car

    If driving from within Douala, navigate to the Bonanjo district and Rue Victoria. The monument is located at 279 Rue Victoria. Parking may be available nearby, but be mindful of local parking regulations. If you are driving from Yaoundé, take the A2 highway heading west towards Douala for approximately 2 hours, covering about 250 kilometers.

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Discover more about Monument Nachtigal

Located in the Bonanjo district of Douala, the Monument Nachtigal is a historical landmark that stands as a tribute to Gustav Nachtigal, a German explorer and commissioner. Nachtigal's arrival in Douala in 1884 marked the beginning of German colonization in Cameroon, then known as Kamerun. The monument serves as a reminder of this complex period in Cameroon's history. The monument itself is an imposing structure that invites reflection on the narratives of African exploration and colonial exchange. The surrounding area is vibrant, offering visitors a glimpse into the daily life of Douala with its bustling streets and local vendors. The monument is easily accessible and provides a focal point for those interested in history and culture. It's a place to engage with the stories of those who lived during a pivotal time, fostering conversations about the impacts of colonialism. Gustav Nachtigal (1834-1885) was a German military surgeon, explorer of Central and West Africa, and the German Empire's consul-general for Tunisia. He was awarded the Royal Geographical Society's Founder's Gold Medal in 1882. Nachtigal died at sea in 1885 while returning to Germany. His remains were initially interred in Grand Bassam, Ivory Coast, but were later exhumed and reburied in Douala in 1888, in front of the Kamerun colonial government building.

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