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Church of St. Michael Nkembo: A Testament to Faith and Art

Discover Libreville's iconic Church of St. Michael Nkembo, a masterpiece of Gabonese art and a vibrant center of Catholic faith.

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The Church of St. Michael Nkembo in Libreville is a Catholic church renowned for its unique exterior featuring 31 carved wooden columns depicting biblical scenes. A significant landmark, it reflects Gabonese artistry and the enduring power of faith.

A brief summary to Church of St. Michael Nkembo

  • CF55+M25, Libreville, GA
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Attend a Sunday morning mass to experience the vibrant atmosphere and beautiful singing in Mpongwe.
  • Take your time to examine the intricate carvings on the wooden columns, each depicting a different biblical scene.
  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the exterior architecture and the details of the carvings.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From most points in Libreville, you can take a taxi-bus (minibus) towards the Nkembo area. These shared taxis are a common and affordable way to get around. Ask locals for the specific route that passes by the Church of St. Michael Nkembo. The fare is typically between 500-1000 XAF per person. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Buses also operate in Libreville, with the main bus terminal located near the Mont-Bouët market. However, taxi-buses are generally more convenient for reaching specific destinations.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Libreville. You can hail one on the street or find them at designated taxi stands. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. A short taxi ride within Libreville typically costs between 500-1000 XAF. For example, a 5km ride would cost approximately 505 XAF. Be aware that fares may double after 9 PM. Using a ride-hailing app like Gozem can provide a safe and professional service with transparent pricing.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Nkembo neighborhood, walking to the Church of St. Michael Nkembo is a viable option. Use the church's address (CF55+M25, Libreville) or landmarks like the Gare Routière (bus station) to guide you. Be aware of your surroundings and local traffic conditions.

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Discover more about Church of St. Michael Nkembo

Located in the Nkembo district of Libreville, the Church of St. Michael Nkembo stands as a testament to both religious devotion and Gabonese artistic talent. Erected as a full-fledged parish on January 6, 1964, its history traces back to 1934 when the Congregation of the Holy Spirit first established a presence in the area. The church's construction began in 1949, with the structure being consecrated on October 2, 1964. The land was initially considered a 'problem site' believed to be haunted. To counter this, Reverend Father Henri Clément used the area for sports activities for students. Eventually, the Catholic Church claimed the land, and Father Auguste Gervain initiated the chapel's construction to dispel the 'evil spirits'. The church is most famous for its 31 unique wooden columns, carved by Gabonese artist Zéphyrin Lendogno. These columns depict scenes from both the Old and New Testaments, showcasing local artistry. Inside, the church features a main altar with Christ on the cross, a lectern, and statues of the Virgin and Saint Michael crafted by Juan Ndong. A colorful statue of Saint Michael is also present in a small square. In 1961, Father Gérard Morel expanded the church to accommodate more worshippers. An amphitheater was added behind the altar in 2001, further increasing the church's capacity. The central nave has seating for 1,000 people, with outdoor space for an additional 2,000, accommodating a total of 3,000 worshippers. Sunday morning masses are particularly vibrant, featuring songs in the Mpongwe language.

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