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Monument Nachtigal: A Colonial Echo in Douala

Explore Douala's Monument Nachtigal: a tribute to German explorer Gustav Nachtigal and a landmark of Cameroon's colonial history.

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The Monument Nachtigal in Douala, Cameroon, commemorates Gustav Nachtigal, a German explorer and commissioner who played a key role in establishing Germany's colonial presence in the region. The monument marks both Nachtigal's burial site and a complex period in Cameroon's history.

A brief summary to Monument Nachtigal

  • 279 Rue Victoria, Douala, Bonanjo, CM

Local tips

  • Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around the Bonanjo district to experience local culture.
  • Engage with local guides to enrich your visit with stories about Nachtigal's travels and the broader context of his adventures.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Bonanjo, head towards Rue Victoria. Ask locals for directions to Rue Victoria if needed. Walk along Rue Victoria, and the monument is located at 279 Rue Victoria. Walking from most points in Bonanjo should take 10-15 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Douala. Provide the driver with the address: 279 Rue Victoria, Bonanjo. A short taxi ride within Douala typically costs around 1,500-3,000 CFA francs. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting the journey.

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Discover more about Monument Nachtigal

The Monument Nachtigal, located on Rue Victoria in Douala's Bonanjo district, stands as a historical marker of Cameroon's colonial past. It commemorates Gustav Nachtigal, a German explorer and commissioner who, in 1884, annexed Douala for Germany, leading to the establishment of Kamerun, Germany's first colony in the region. Nachtigal's role in shaping the colonial landscape of West Africa is significant, and the monument serves as a reminder of this complex history. Gustav Nachtigal (1834-1885) was a German military surgeon, explorer, and diplomat. He is remembered for his explorations of Central and West Africa and his service as the German Empire's consul-general for Tunisia. His journey through the Sahel earned him a reputation as a discoverer, and his works are noted for their detail and unbiased views of Africans. Nachtigal died at sea in 1885 and was initially buried in Grand Bassam, Ivory Coast, before being reinterred in Douala in 1888. The monument is easily accessible and located in a lively district with shops and eateries. It provides a focal point for reflection on African exploration and colonial history.

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