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Ganamet House: A Colonial Relic in Grand-Bassam

Explore Ganamet House in Grand-Bassam, a UNESCO site blending colonial architecture with Ivorian heritage, offering a glimpse into the past.

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Ganamet House, located in Grand-Bassam, Côte d'Ivoire, is a captivating example of colonial architecture from the 1920s. Once owned by a Lebanese-Syrian trader, Mr. Ganamet, the house showcases a unique blend of European and Middle Eastern influences. Though deteriorating, it remains a significant historical landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A brief summary to Ganamet House

  • 57WC+6P4, Grand-Bassam, CI

Local tips

  • Visit early in the day for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
  • Engage with local guides to gain insights into the history and significance of Ganamet House.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll want to explore the surrounding historical area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Ganamet House is located in the Quartier France (French Quarter) of Grand-Bassam. From the Grand-Bassam bus station, head east on Avenue de la République. Turn left onto Rue de la Liberté and walk for about 500 meters. Ganamet House will be on your right at the address '57WC+6P4'. Walking from the bus station takes approximately 20-25 minutes. A short taxi ride from the bus station to Ganamet House should cost around 1,000-2,000 CFA francs ($1.50 - $3 USD).

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Grand-Bassam. A taxi ride from most locations in the city center to Ganamet House should cost approximately 1,000-2,000 CFA francs ($1.50 - $3 USD). Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your trip. The journey should take no more than 10 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Driving

    If driving from Abidjan, head east on the A3 highway towards Grand-Bassam. Once in Grand-Bassam, follow Avenue de la République and turn onto Rue de la Paix. Then, turn left onto Rue des Alizés. Ganamet House is located at the intersection of Rue des Alizés and the unnamed road that leads to the beach. Parking may be limited near Ganamet House. Parking fees, if applicable, are typically around 500 CFA francs ($0.75 USD) per hour.

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Discover more about Ganamet House

Ganamet House stands as a testament to Grand-Bassam's rich colonial past. Built in the 1920s, this architectural gem was once the residence of Mr. Ganamet, a prominent Lebanese-Syrian trader, and reflects a unique blend of neo-classical European styles with Middle Eastern influences. The house's façade features Ionic columns, pilasters, and a curved pediment, showcasing an Art Nouveau spirit adapted to the tropical climate. As a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ganamet House offers visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of its former inhabitants and the cultural heritage of the region. The building's architecture is a testament to the period, characterized by the use of concrete and heavy doors made of imported oak. Although time has taken its toll, with parts of the walls gone and vegetation reclaiming the structure, the house retains an alluring charm. Today, Ganamet House stands as a photogenic, if decaying, canvas for urban art, with graffiti adding a contemporary twist to its storied past. While preservation efforts are needed to safeguard its legacy, visitors can still explore this architectural gem and appreciate its historical significance within the context of Grand-Bassam.

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