Bangui - the capital of the Central African Republic
An interesting fact - the capital of the Central African Republic, the city of Bangui, was born in 1889 thanks to the French colonialists. Their goal was the same - the construction of a military post in their own colony, which bore the name Ubangi-Shari, later this post was renamed Kubangi-Shari.
Currently, Bangui is entrusted with the capital status. Unfortunately, the ongoing civil war and economic devastation have put the city in the penultimate place on the list of the worst cities on the planet. The main city of the CAR was able to overtake only Baghdad, and even then in connection with the well-known events.
Thresholds-thresholds
The name of the capital of the Central African Republic, Bangui, is translated quite simply and means «rapids». On the one hand, the military post became a transit point for the French army. On the other hand, this city is located on the Ubangi River, which is famous for its real rapids, which significantly limit navigation in the region..
African cuisine
The culinary map of Bangui is quite extensive. There is also a place for small bars and chic restaurants. According to experts, catering establishments in the capital of the CAR can be conditionally divided into three types:
- restaurants focused on French cuisine;
- national restaurants practicing, for example, Chinese or Lebanese cuisine;
- African restaurants popular with patriotic locals.
Therefore, in principle, tourists visiting the Central African Republic and its capital have a gastronomic choice..
Center of life
Probably, this is the definition that can be given to the Central Market (Marché Central), which is located in the very heart of the capital, in the immediate vicinity of the river port. This market has its own atmosphere, very reminiscent of the famous oriental bazaars, but with a truly African flavor. After all, most of the sellers and buyers are locals..
For tourists, going to the market is a kind of immersion in the atmosphere of the city, with its bustle, noise and crowds. In addition, here you can buy national souvenirs, including ebony, African butterfly collections and gold jewelry.
Its own Arc de Triomphe
This architectural object is classified as one of the main local attractions. The arch was erected in the city center in 1977, when one of the most eccentric African leaders, known as Emperor Bokassa I, was in power.
