Plizio Visual Lab

Independence Monument

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Historical site
—°10
Independence Monument (Togo)

Weather…

The Independence Monument (Monument de l'Indépendance) in Lomé is the most significant national symbol of Togo, commemorating April 27, 1960, the day the nation gained sovereignty from France. Located in the heart of the capital city on a spacious public square, the monument was designed by architect Georges Coustot. Its central feature is a stylized human silhouette breaking free from a large stone block, which powerfully symbolizes Togo's liberation from colonial rule and the birth of a free nation. A female figure holding a torch atop the structure represents the flame of liberty illuminating the future. The monument is surrounded by well-maintained gardens, fountains, and wide avenues, making it a focal point for national celebrations and official state ceremonies every April. It serves not only as a historical memorial for the struggle for self-determination but also as a testament to the unity and resilience of the Togolese people in the post-colonial era.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C282828282826252525262728
Rain mm153386118171181111571321404016

📋 Practical info

🚪
Visiting
The Independence Monument in Lomé is an imposing monument in the public space. It can be freely visited at any time, with no access restrictions.
🕒
Typical hours
As an outdoor monument, it typically has no fixed opening hours. It is available to visitors daily, even at night.
📷
Photography
Photography is allowed and encouraged. The monument looks particularly beautiful in the backlight of the setting sun, which highlights the white color.
⏱️
Time needed
Allow about 20 minutes to view the monument from different angles. It is an important photo spot and a starting point for city walks.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Grand Market of Lomé or the National Museum. Both are within walking distance and offer an authentic insight.
🧭
Getting there
The monument is in central Lomé on the main thoroughfare Boulevard du 13 Janvier. It is easily reachable by taxi or on foot from most hotels.
💡
Insider tip
Visit the monument in the morning when the light is good and temperatures are still bearable. Watch out for traffic as it is next to a busy road.

Geography

Coordinates
6.13100, 1.22200

Facts

  • The monument commemorates independence achieved on April 27, 1960.
  • It was designed by the architect Georges Coustot.
  • The sculpture represents a person breaking out of a stone monolith.
  • The torch held by the figure signifies the flame of liberty.
  • It is the primary site for Togo's National Day celebrations.
  • The surrounding area features fountains and ceremonial gardens.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Independence Monument (10)

Monico Metal Supply

Metal supply store in Lomé, selling construction steel, sheets, and welding equipment.

Place de la Libération

Square in Lomé, used for public gatherings and cultural events.

Place des Martyrs

Monument in Lomé, commemorating victims of the independence struggle.

Village Artisanal

Craft village in Lomé, with workshops for wood carving, weaving, and pottery.

Togo National Museum🏛 museum

Museum in Maritime, Togo, displaying historical and cultural artifacts of the country.

Goethe-Institut

Cultural centre in Lomé, offering language courses, library, and film screenings.

Palais des congrès de Lomé

Convention centre in Lomé, hosting conferences and trade fairs.

Monument de l'Indépendance

Monument in Lomé, Togo, erected to commemorate independence in 1960.

Galerie Coin du Terroir🏛 museum

Museum in Lomé, specializing in traditional art and handicrafts.

Institut Français du Togo

French cultural institute in Lomé, with media library, courses, and events.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Independence Monument?
It is a central symbol of Togo's independence from France in 1960.
Where in Lomé is it?
It is located in a central area, surrounded by a large parking space.
Can one visit the monument?
Yes, it is a public place and accessible from the outside at any time.
Is it a good photo subject?
Yes, especially in sunny weather, the monument provides an impressive backdrop for photos.
Are there set opening hours?
No, since it is an open monument, there are no closing times.
Independence Monument: where is it located?
Independence Monument is located in Togo.
Independence Monument: what is there to see?
Highlights include Monico Metal Supply, Place de la Libération, Place des Martyrs.
Independence Monument: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
Independence Monument: why is it worth visiting?
The Independence Monument (Monument de l'Indépendance) in Lomé is the most significant national symbol of Togo, commemorating April 27, 1960, the day the nation gained sovereignty from France.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Africa
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Africa
More places in Togo →

Nearby cities

History & landmarks

More places