Have you ever dreamed of visiting a city offering historical sites and natural and artistic wonders? If yes, consider Lomé. It is Togo's capital and the largest city. For those unaware, Togo is a small West African country that shares borders with Ghana, Benin, and Burkina Faso.
Lomé is unique for travellers looking for budget-friendly, convenience, diversity, and charm, all in one place. Today, we will explore a few of the best places to visit in Lomé and why you should add them to your itinerary
Top Places to Visit in Lomé
- The Grand Marché
- Lomé Cathedral
- Monument de l’Independence
- Musée International d’Art d’Afrique
- Village Artisanal
-
The Grand Marché
The Grand Marché gives you an insight into the Togolese people's daily life, commerce, and culture. You will be surprised by seeing the variety of goods displayed in the market stalls, shops, and streets.
Some of the things that you can buy at the market are traditional fabrics, such as wax prints and batiks, which are colourful and patterned; jewellery, such as beads, bracelets, and necklaces, which are made of various materials and designs; and masks, statues, and carvings, which are inspired by the local folklore and beliefs.
Things to do at Grand Marché
- Enjoy the African music performed by local musicians at the market.
- Relax at the Lome Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.
-
The Lomé Cathedral
The Lomé Cathedral was built by the Germans during their colonial rule of Togo in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It is one of the country's oldest and most important religious buildings and serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Lomé.
The Lomé Cathedral is a remarkable example of architecture and art, featuring stained glass windows, an organ, and a bell tower. The stained glass windows illustrate scenes from the Bible and the history of Togo, such as the arrival of the missionaries, the resistance of the local chiefs, and the proclamation of independence.
Things to do at Lomé Cathedral
- Experience the vibrant culture and the melodies of the Grand Marché.
- Appreciate the design and the colorful glass of the cathedral, which stand out from the nearby market scene.
-
Monument de l’Independence
The Monument de l'Independence was erected in 1960 to commemorate Togo's independence from France. A garden and a fountain surround it.
The Monument de l'Independence has several inscriptions and sculptures that reflect the history and values of Togo. The inscriptions include the date of independence, the name of the first president, and the country's motto, "Travail, Liberté, Patrie" (Work, Freedom, Fatherland). The sculptures include a woman holding a torch, a man breaking chains, and a group of people holding hands. The woman symbolises the nation's hope and future, the man symbolises the struggle and the people's liberation, and the group symbolises the society's unity and solidarity.
Things to do at Monument de l’Independence
- Get the panorama of the city and the sea from the summit of the monument.
- Discover the history and culture of Togo at the adjacent National Museum, which exhibits artifacts, sculptures, masks, musical instruments, and more.
-
Musée International d’Art d’Afrique
The Musée International d’Art d’Afrique offers a rare collection of artworks, artefacts, and exhibits from various countries and regions of West Africa. The museum has several rooms and sections dedicated to a different theme or topic.
The Musée International d’Art d’Afrique has many highlights and themes that captivate and educate you. Some of them are the masks, the textiles, the sculptures, and the contemporary art. The masks are diverse and fascinating, as they reflect the beliefs and rituals of the different ethnic groups and communities in West Africa.
Things to do at Musee International D’Art D’Afrique
- See the unique collections of a European who lived in Africa and a Chinese scholar who owned the museum in different periods.
- View the artworks of ancient and modern Africa from different areas and traditions.
-
Village Artisanal
The Village Artisanal offers a chance to see and support the creativity and craftsmanship of the Togolese people. You can watch the artisans at work and buy their products directly. You will also be able to learn from them and even try your hand at some of their crafts.
Some types and examples of handicrafts you can find here are wood, leather, metal, and fabric products. The wood products include furniture, boxes, bowls, and chess sets carved and decorated with various motifs and patterns. The leather products include bags, wallets, belts, and shoes, stitched and dyed with various colours and designs. The metal products include jewellery, lamps, and statues, which are forged and shaped with various tools and techniques.
Things to do at Village Artisanal
- Interact with the vendors and experience the lively vibe of the market. You can also improve your French or Ewe skills by conversing with the locals.
- You can book a tour or a rental car to explore other places in Lome and beyond.
Best Time to Visit Lomé
Lomé has hot weather all year. But it rains a lot in some months. The best time to visit Lomé is when it is not too rainy or crowded. If possible, make your plans between November and April or in August.
Travel Insurance for Lomé
Lomé is a dream destination for many Indians. But before you pack your bags and fly to this African city, ensure you have a travel insurance policy covering any unforeseen events. You don't want to ruin your trip with extra expenses, whether a medical emergency, a lost passport, or a flight delay. With a travel insurance policy, you can enjoy the sun, the sand, and the culture of Lomé without any worries.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.