Lome
Lome is the capital and largest city of Togo, located on the Gulf of Guinea, in West Africa. Here are some key details about Lome:
- Geography: Lome lies on the coast, making it a significant port city. Its coordinates are approximately 6°7'46.9"N, 1°13'3.4"E.
- Population: As of the last census, Lome has a population that exceeds one million, making it a bustling urban center.
- History:
- Lome was originally a small fishing village before it grew in importance due to its strategic location on trade routes.
- The city was declared the capital of German Togoland in 1897 after the area was colonized by Germany in the late 19th century.
- After World War I, Togoland was divided by the League of Nations, with the western part, including Lome, becoming French Togoland in 1919.
- Togo gained independence from France on April 27, 1960, and Lome remained the capital.
- Economy:
- Lome serves as Togo's main commercial and industrial center, with industries like textiles, cement, and beverages.
- It is also a hub for the regional trade, with a significant port handling imports and exports.
- The city hosts the Grand Market of Lome, one of the largest markets in West Africa, known for its variety of goods from textiles to foodstuffs.
- Culture and Education:
- Lome has a rich cultural scene with numerous festivals, including the Lome Voodoo Festival, which celebrates Togo's traditional religion.
- Educational institutions include the University of Lome, which is the country's leading higher education institution.
- Tourism:
- Transportation:
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