Memorial of the Martyrs of Thiaroye

The Memorial of the Martyrs of Thiaroye commemorates one of the most tragic events in Senegalese colonial history: the 1944 massacre. In December of that year, Senegalese Tirailleurs, African soldiers who had served in the French Army, were fired upon by French troops after protesting for their unpaid demobilization bonuses and back pay following World War II. The memorial is situated on the grounds of the former military camp in Thiaroye-sur-Mer, a suburb of Dakar, serving as a site for solemn reflection and historical reckoning. It features a military cemetery where the fallen lie in anonymous graves, highlighting the ongoing debate regarding the true number of casualties. Annual commemorative ceremonies are held here to raise awareness of the sacrifices made by African soldiers in global conflicts. The monument stands as a powerful symbol of the struggle for dignity and recognition against colonial authority. In recent years, the site has been renovated to make it more accessible to the public and historians studying this period. It remains a pivotal location for the national memory of Senegal and the wider francophone African community.

Nearby cities

Dakar

The vibrant capital of Senegal is located on the Cap-Vert peninsula and serves as the political and economic center of the country.

Pikine

The largest suburb of Dakar, which became one of the most densely populated zones due to rapid population growth.

Rufisque

A historic port city near Dakar that played a key role in the peanut export during the colonial era.

Somone

A peaceful resort town set by a beautiful lagoon, known for its bird sanctuary and relaxed beach-side bars.

History & landmarks

Great Mosque of Guédiawaye

An impressive and architecturally significant mosque in Guédiawaye, one of the most densely populated suburbs of Dakar.

Léopold Sédar Senghor Stadium

A large multi-purpose stadium in Dakar, frequently used for football matches of the Senegalese national team.

Massalikoul Jinaan Mosque

A massive mosque in Dakar, built by the Mouride brotherhood, considered one of the largest in West Africa.

Place of the Nation

A large public square in Dakar, known for its central obelisk and as a venue for national parades.

🗺️

Dakar City Hall

A notable colonial-era building in Dakar, serving as the seat of the municipal government.

Museum of Black Civilisations

A major museum in Dakar dedicated to African art and cultural history worldwide.

National Grand Theatre

The Grand Théâtre National Doudou Ndiaye Rose in Dakar is one of the largest cultural centers in West Africa.

Iba Mar Diop Stadium

An important athletics and football stadium in the heart of Dakar, regularly used for local tournaments.

More places

Mbao Oil Refinery

The Société Africaine de Raffinage in Mbao is the country's only oil refinery.

Dakar forest belt

Green spaces in the urban area of Dakar.

Animal Rehabilitation Center

A center that cares for sick or injured animals before they are released back into the wild.

Fort d'Estrées

An old circular fort on Gorée Island that today houses the Historical Museum of Senegal.

House of Slaves (Gorée)

A significant historical museum and memorial for the Atlantic slave trade.

Cap des Biches Power Station

The Cap des Biches thermal power station in Rufisque is a major source of electricity for Dakar.

Dakar Adventure Park

A climbing park for kids with various difficulty levels.

🗺️

Mbao Forest

An important forest area near Dakar, important for recreation.