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Charles Atangana Statue
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Landmark
The Charles Atangana Statue in Yaoundé stands as a significant historical monument dedicated to the paramount chief of the Ewondo and Bane peoples. Charles Atangana, born Ntsama Atangana, served as a key administrative intermediary during both the German and French colonial administrations in the early 20th century. The bronze statue, located near the Prime Minister's office on the administrative hill, depicts the leader in traditional attire, symbolizing the continuity of Beti leadership and heritage. Atangana was appointed 'Oberhäuptling' by the German authorities in 1914 before going into exile in Madrid during World War I. Upon his return in 1921, he continued his influential role under French mandate, contributing to the urbanization of Yaoundé. Today, the monument is a site of cultural reflection, representing the complex interplay between traditional authority and colonial history in Cameroon.
- Location: Cameroon
- Top sights: Blackitude Museum · Monument Leclerc-Eboué · Commission Nationale Pour La Promotion Du Bilinguisme Et Du Multiculturalisme
- Nearby: Obala (33 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 25 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 14 | 40 | 117 | 164 | 149 | 119 | 115 | 169 | 212 | 231 | 126 | 18 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The statue is located in a public space and can be viewed from outside at any time. There is no building to enter, but the surroundings are pleasant for a stroll.
Typical hours
As an outdoor monument, there are no set opening hours. It is visible around the clock, but best visited during daylight for good photos.
Photography
Photography of the statue is allowed at any time as it stands in a public area. Commercial shoots may require a permit from the city authorities.
Time needed
Allow about 15 to 30 minutes to see the statue and enjoy the square. The surrounding streets offer other historic buildings for a short walk.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the Charles Atangana Palace and the National Museum of Yaoundé, both within walking distance. The Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Cathedral is also nearby.
Getting there
The statue is in central Yaoundé, easily reached by taxi or on foot from many central hotels. Public buses stop nearby at Place de l'Indépendance.
Insider tip
Visit the statue in the late afternoon when the light is softer and the square is less busy. Keep an eye on your belongings in the bustling area.
Geography
Facts
- Charles Atangana was baptized in 1897 and given the Christian name Karl.
- He was officially appointed paramount chief of the Ewondo and Bane in 1914.
- He lived in exile in Spain from 1916 to 1920 during World War I.
- The statue is located on the Atemengue Plateau in the capital city.
- Atangana is credited with helping establish Yaoundé as a political center.
- He passed away in 1943 as a highly respected traditional and political leader.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Charles Atangana Statue (10)
Maison Dominik
Building in Yaoundé known as a cultural meeting point and event space.
Musée National🏛 museum
Art and culture museum in Yaoundé with national collections on Cameroon's history.
Musée Ethnographique et d'Histoire des Peuples de la Forêt d'Afrique Centrale🏛 museum
Cameroon museum of art and culture, focusing on ethnography and history of forest peoples.
Plus vieux bâtiment en dur de Yaoundé
Oldest stone building in Yaoundé, constructed during the German colonial period.
Monument de l'indépendace
Monument in Yaoundé commemorating Cameroon's independence in 1960.
Complexe culturel "Le passe simple" chez Amerigo
Cultural complex in Yaoundé featuring workshops, exhibitions, and performance spaces.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Who was Charles Atangana?
A significant leader of the Beti people during the colonial era.
Where is the monument located in Yaoundé?
It is located near the city center, not far from the National Museum.
When was the statue erected?
It was renovated in honor of his centenary or significant anniversaries.
Is the monument freely accessible?
Yes, it is in a public space and can be visited anytime.
Are there inscriptions on the monument?
Yes, there are plaques explaining his role in Cameroon's history.
Charles Atangana Statue: where is it located?
Charles Atangana Statue is located in Cameroon.
Charles Atangana Statue: what is there to see?
Highlights include Blackitude Museum, Monument Leclerc-Eboué, Commission Nationale Pour La Promotion Du Bilinguisme Et Du Multiculturalisme.
Charles Atangana Statue: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Charles Atangana Statue: why is it worth visiting?
The Charles Atangana Statue in Yaoundé stands as a significant historical monument dedicated to the paramount chief of the Ewondo and Bane peoples.
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