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Mapeera House
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Landmark
Mapeera House is a modern commercial building located on Kampala Road, in the heart of Kampala, Uganda. While it is a contemporary structure, its significance is deeply rooted in Ugandan history. The building serves as the headquarters of Centenary Bank, one of the country's largest commercial banks, which primarily serves the rural population. The name 'Mapeera' is a tribute to Father Siméon Lourdel of the White Fathers missionary society. Father Lourdel, affectionately nicknamed 'Mapeera' by the Baganda people (a localisation of 'Mon Père' or 'My Father'), was a French Catholic missionary who played a pivotal role in establishing Catholicism in Uganda. He arrived in the Buganda Kingdom in 1879. The 19-storey building, officially inaugurated in 2012, thus stands as a symbol of the intersection of faith, history, and modern economics in Uganda, honouring the legacy of a key figure in the nation's spiritual development.
- Location: Uganda
- Top sights: C.N KIKONYOGO MONEY MUSEUM · Church House Building
- Nearby: Nakawa (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 24 | 24 | 22 | 22 | 21 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 65 | 66 | 148 | 194 | 158 | 63 | 57 | 88 | 117 | 158 | 166 | 116 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Mapeera House is a modern office building housing Centenary Bank, so public access is limited to the lobby. The glass facade can be photographed and admired from outside at any time.
Typical hours
The ground-floor bank branch is typically open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm - exact hours may vary. On weekends the building is generally closed except for security staff.
Photography
Exterior photos of the glass building can be taken anytime from the street and are rewarding in good light. Inside the bank, photography is typically not allowed for security reasons.
Time needed
A quick stop for an outside photo takes only 5-10 minutes. If you want to study the architecture more closely, allow 15 minutes.
Combine with
The building is in Kampala's central business district, a short walk from Nakasero Market and Uhuru Park. Combine the visit with the nearby Parliament House or Nakivubo Stadium.
Getting there
Mapeera House is easily reachable by taxi or boda-boda from anywhere downtown. Parking is limited; it is recommended to come on foot or by public transport.
Insider tip
Come in the late afternoon when the setting sun makes the glass facade glow golden. Be aware of security measures - the building is well-guarded, so behave discreetly.
Geography
Facts
- The headquarters of Centenary Bank.
- Named in honour of Father Siméon Lourdel ('Mapeera').
- Father Lourdel arrived in Uganda in 1879.
- The building stands 19 storeys tall.
- Officially inaugurated in 2012.
- Located on Kampala Road.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Mapeera House (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Mapeera House?
A modern office building in the center of Kampala.
Can you visit as a tourist?
It is primarily a business center, not a tourist destination.
Why is it known?
Due to its central location and modern architecture.
What is nearby?
Many banks, markets, and busy streets.
Is it safe?
Yes, there are security checks in the building.
Mapeera House: where is it located?
Mapeera House is located in Uganda.
Mapeera House: what is there to see?
Highlights include C.N KIKONYOGO MONEY MUSEUM, Church House Building.
Mapeera House: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Mapeera House: why is it worth visiting?
Mapeera House is a modern commercial building located on Kampala Road, in the heart of Kampala, Uganda.
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