Governors' Palace

The Governors' Palace (Palais des Gouverneurs) in Lomé, now known as the Palais de Lomé, is one of the most significant examples of German colonial architecture in West Africa. Built between 1898 and 1905 under the direction of Governor August Köhler, the palace was designed to project the power and prestige of the German Empire in its Togoland colony. The building is characterized by its wide verandas, monumental staircases, and a surrounding 11-hectare botanical park containing rare tropical trees and bird species. Following World War I, it served as the seat of the French mandate administration and later as the presidential residence after Togo's independence in 1960. After a long period of neglect, the palace underwent a major restoration and reopened in 2019 as a world-class center for art and culture. It now hosts contemporary art exhibitions, cultural festivals, and educational workshops, effectively transforming a symbol of colonial rule into a celebrated public space for creativity and African heritage.

Nearby cities

Lomé

Lomé is situated directly on the Gulf of Guinea and serves as the pulsating political and economic center of Togo.

Tsévié

Tsévié is a major center for palm oil processing, strategically located on the main road heading north.

Aného

Aného, the former capital of Togo, is picturesquely located between a lagoon and the sea.

Tabligbo

Tabligbo is the industrial backbone of the Maritime Region, defined by vast phosphate deposits and cement plants.

🗺️

Vogan

Vogan is famous for its large weekly market, drawing traders from across the entire region.

Kévé

Kévé is located near the Ghana border and is known for its fertile soils, primarily producing cassava and yams.

History & landmarks

Lomé City Hall

The Lomé City Hall is a representative administrative building symbolizing the municipal self-government of the capital.

Old Lighthouse of Lomé

The old lighthouse of Lomé is a historic navigational monument that once guided ships into the harbor.

Dove Monument

The Dove Monument is a peaceful landmark in Lomé, representing the hope for national harmony and stability.

BCEAO Building

The headquarters of the Central Bank of West African States in Lomé is an imposing building embodying the financial stability of the region.

Hôtel du 2 Février

This prominent high-rise is the tallest building in Togo and a symbol of the modern skyline of the capital, Lomé.

National Unity Monument

This monument in Lomé symbolizes the cohesion of Togo's various ethnic groups and the common building of the nation.

Théâtre de la Verdure

A prominent open-air theater in Lomé that serves as a center for cultural performances, music, and theatrical shows.

Reconciliation Square

A significant public space in Lomé commemorating the efforts for national peace and overcoming historical conflicts.

More places

Wharf of Lomé

The remains of the old piers (wharfs) in Lomé are silent witnesses to colonial trade history and engineering.

Independence Monument

This imposing monument in the center of Lomé commemorates Togo's independence from France, achieved on April 27, 1960.

Sacré-Cœur Cathedral

Lomé's neo-Gothic cathedral was built during the German colonial period and is one of the country's most striking religious buildings.

National Museum of Togo

Housed in the Palais des Congrès in Lomé, the museum preserves the rich culture, art, and history of the Togolese people from prehistory …

BB Lomé Brewery

The Brasserie du Bénin (BB Lomé) is Togo's largest brewery and produces a variety of beverages.

German Cemetery

A quiet historical site in Lomé where officials, traders, and soldiers from the German Togoland era are buried.

Sacred Forest of Bé

Located in the middle of the capital Lomé, this sacred forest is a retreat for small mammals, birds, and rare plant species.

Lomé Amusement Park

A popular spot for families in the capital, offering various rides and playgrounds for children of all ages.