Yaounde - the capital of Cameroon
Yaounde, the capital of Cameroon, is a very young city. It appeared at a time when the country was under the protectorate of Germany. The capital was founded - 1888 (according to other sources - 1889).
A small African state (and its capital) had to go through a difficult path to independence: at the end of the 19th century - a German protectorate, then occupation by Belgian troops, since 1922 Yaounde - the capital of French Cameroon, finally, since 1960 - it is the main city of an independent state.
Attractions Yaounde
It is clear that few architectural masterpieces have survived in the city itself, but it surprises with its layout. The capital of Cameroon has one central street named after the great American President John F. Kennedy. Almost all residential quarters are located along it. Urban development continues on the picturesque hills located in the vicinity of the city.
The most interesting places for tourists in the city:
- Njong Melen Church, amazing with its architecture;
- the Benedictine monastery located in the center of the capital;
- museums and craft centers.
Many guests of Yaounde are in a hurry to get on an excursion to the Cameroon Museum of Art, which is located near the Benedictine monastery. It is interesting that the museum exhibits ancient art creations of local painters and their «colleagues» from Europe. But the most important attention is attracted by traditional African ritual masks..
A special aura is present in the Museum of Black Art. And in the Crafts Center, firstly, you can get acquainted with the traditional crafts and crafts for these territories, and secondly, make a stock of exotic souvenirs for the relatives who have remained at home. Here you can also see local sorcerers who trade in magical herbs and potions, as well as ritual items. It is in this place that you can feel in full force the flavor of ancient Cameroon.
Natural Monuments
One of such iconic places for the capital's residents and guests of Yaounde is Mount Cameroon - an active volcano that frightens people from time to time with another eruption. On the way to its peaks, you can see how natural zones replace one another, lush vegetation of tropical forests flows into emerald alpine meadows, and the top is covered with snow. There is a special observation deck for tourists..
