Village des Artisans: A Showcase of Gabonese Craftsmanship
Discover Gabon's artistic soul at Village des Artisans: handcrafted treasures, cultural stories, and local artistry in Libreville.
Located in Libreville, the Village des Artisans is a cultural hub offering an immersive experience into Gabon's artistic traditions. This lively marketplace features stalls brimming with a diverse array of handicrafts, from intricately carved wooden sculptures to vibrant textiles and unique jewelry. Each piece reflects the cultural influences of the Gabonese people, with many items drawing inspiration from folklore, mythology, and daily life. As you wander through the village, you'll encounter skilled artisans at work, demonstrating their techniques and sharing the stories behind their creations. Fang masks, known for their elongated faces and intricate designs, are among the unique items you might find. Other popular crafts include wooden carvings of animals, human figures, and abstract forms. The atmosphere is welcoming, offering a chance to engage with the local community and learn about Gabonese culture. The Village des Artisans is more than just a shopping destination; it's a place to connect with the heart and soul of Gabon.
Local tips
- Visit early in the day for the best selection of handicrafts and a more relaxed shopping experience.
- Bargaining is common and expected, so don't hesitate to negotiate prices with the artisans.
- Engage with the artisans to learn about their craft, the materials they use, and the stories behind their creations.
- Bring cash, as not all vendors may accept credit cards.
A brief summary to Village des Artisans
- 9CPW+MPW, Libreville, GA
- Monday 8:30 am-8 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-8 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-8 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-8 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-8 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-8 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-8 pm
Getting There
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Walking
From the city center, such as the area around the Presidential Palace, the Village des Artisans is accessible by foot. Head east, away from the coast, using Rue Jean-Hilaire Aubame as a primary route. The walk is approximately 1.5-2 kilometers and should take about 20-30 minutes. Be mindful of the heat and traffic; sidewalks may be uneven in places.
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Public Transport
Local buses (Gbaka) are available, though routes and schedules can be unreliable. Look for buses heading in the general direction of Quartier Glass. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Village des Artisans. A single fare should cost around 200-300 CFA. From the drop-off point, there may be a short walk to the village.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Libreville. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A taxi from the city center (e.g., near the Radisson Blu Okoume Palace Hotel) to the Village des Artisans should cost approximately 1500-2500 CFA, depending on traffic and your bargaining skills. The ride should take around 10-15 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Village des Artisans
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African Trotteur
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Galerie Discover Gabon by Agatour
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Medzime Assock Gîte Touristique Parc des Monts de Cristal Gabon
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National Museum of Arts, Rites and Traditions of Gabon
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Mausolée Léon M'ba
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Clark
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Casino Croisette
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Hassan II Mosquee
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Stade Complexe Omnisport
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Seaside Libreville
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PK0
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Peyrie Garden
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Tsunami
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Feu Nobakele
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Cathédrale Sainte Marie
