Discover Golfe: History, Markets and Beach

Golfe offers travelers several distinct points of interest: a precisely dated Independence Monument, historical heritage in Baguida, as well as markets, a fine sandy beach and sacred forests in Golfe 1. When planning your trip, it is therefore worth looking at the individual places rather than focusing on a single reason to visit. Golfe 4 is home to the Independence Monument, Lomé Cathedral and the National Museum; attractions in Golfe 1 include markets and scenery.

History and Culture in Golfe

The Independence Monument is located in the administrative district of Golfe 4. It was unveiled on April 27, 1960, the day Togo gained independence. This date gives the monument a clear historical connection: its unveiling took place on Independence Day. Lomé Cathedral is considered a tourist attraction in the Golfe 4 district, as is the National Museum in the administrative district of Golfe 4. If you plan to visit these cultural sites, check in advance on current access arrangements.

Another historical landmark is the German-Togolese Centennial Monument in Baguida. It commemorates German-Togolese relations on the occasion of their centenary in 1984. From 1884 to 1887, Baguida was the first seat of the German colonial administration. In this way, a commemoration of relations between the two countries stands alongside Baguida's former administrative role; the dates distinguish the centenary from the historical period.

The municipality of Golfe 1 offers a different selection: its tourist attractions include the markets of Bè and Djifa-Kpota, a fine sandy beach and the sacred forests of Hounvémé. The two markets are distinct reasons to visit, alongside the beach and forests. This contrast sets Golfe 1 apart from the historical landmarks in Golfe 4 and offers several themes to consider when planning a trip, without reducing the municipality to just one kind of visit.

Cultural and Scenic Experiences in the Wider Destination of Maritime

In the wider destination of Maritime, Agbodrafo is home to Maison Wood, also known as Maison des Esclaves or Wood Home. Built shortly after 1835, the Afro-Brazilian-style building was inhabited by John WOOD, a Scottish merchant. Distinctive arched doors and windows define its architectural details. The house is about 21 m long and 10 m wide; it has six rooms and a sitting room. It also has a cellar 1.50 m deep, which extends around the entire perimeter of the building. Its style, arches and room layout offer different points of interest for exploring its architecture. Maison des Esclaves is a visitor attraction in Maritime; check in advance on current visiting arrangements.

Aného is also in the wider destination of Maritime. The old town is near the border with Benin and about 50 km east of Lomé. Aného has been involved in transatlantic trade since the 15th century. The town has many colonial buildings, including German ones; the old buildings bear witness to the first contacts with European sailors and merchants, as well as to the colonial era. The Aného Museum and the Zangbeto dance are among its notable visitor attractions. Check in advance on museum access and possible dance performance dates.

Lake Togo is another distinct highlight in the wider destination of Maritime. Visitors can relax on its shores. Activities on offer include windsurfing, jet skiing and pedal boating, as well as a pirogue crossing in the direction of Togoville. This offers a choice between relaxing by the shore, water sports and a pirogue crossing. Before making plans, check whether your preferred activity is available on your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Lomé.

Return to the wider travel guide: Maritime.