When we think about massive and imposing buildings, the first images that come to mind are from cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Berlin, Moscow, and so on. But we often forget that African countries are also teeming with architectural marvels, and we have the privilege to make a short list of them in this article.
Africa is known for having a rich history and cultural heritage. In a previous article, we’ve spoken about the famous Egyptian Pyramids and how they are still surrounded in mystery today considering that it is pretty much unknown how constructors were able to build such impressive architectural marvels thousands of years ago. Luckily, African nations have even a lot more to offer than just the Egyptian Pyramids, so let’s cut to the chase!
Hassan II Mosque, Morocco
The Hassan II Mosque from Casablanca, Morocco, is known for its intricate architecture and towering minaret. This building is a masterpiece of Islamic design, as it captivates numerous tourists and visitors due to its grandeur and beauty.
The National Arts Theatre (Nigeria)
The National Arts Theatre from Nigeria (Lagos, to be more precise) has been designed to reassemble a military hat, as it is a striking example of brutalist architecture. The building commands attention due to its bold geometric shapes and imposing facade.
The Palace of the Lost City (South Africa)
The Palace of the Lost City is an opulent palace nestled amidst lush landscapes, as it exudes luxury and grandeur. This massive building offers a glimpse into the world of African royalty due to its lavish architecture, not to mention that the surroundings are stunning as well.
Nairobi City Hall (Kenya)
The City Hall dominates the skyline of Nairobi, as it stands as a symbol of colonial architecture. This building boasts grandiose pillars and complex detailing that reflect the rich history and heritage of the city.
Le Monument de la Renaissance Africaine (Senegal)
Le Monument de la Renaissance Africaine from Senegal stands tall on a hill overlooking Dakar, and it celebrates the cultural heritage and resilience of Africa, captivating numerous onlookers due to its majestic presence.
The Great Pyramid of Giza (Egypt)
The Great Pyramid of Giza stands as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and it is a testament to ancient engineering prowess, as it dominates the skyline due to its colossal stature.
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina (Egypt)
The Bibliotheca Alexandrina from Egypt revives the spirit of the ancient Library of Alexandria, and it showcases a modern design. The building is a masterpiece, but it can also easily be considered a beacon of knowledge and learning. The design is futuristic, and it pays homage to the illustrious past of Egypt.
Ponte City Apartments (South Africa)
Ponte City Apartments rise high above Johannesburg, as we’re talking about an iconic skyscraper that demands attention due to its cylindrical shape and imposing presence. The building symbolizes the urban landscape of South Africa.
The Great Mosque of Djenne (Mali)
The Great Mosque of Djenne is renowned for its distinctive adobe architecture and towering minarets, and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to the rich cultural heritage that West Africa has.
As we can all conclude, there are numerous beautiful and imposing buildings in Africa that gather a lot of tourists from numerous parts of the world. You surely can’t be bored if you visit that part of the world!
Tommy’s hobby has always been playing video games. He enjoys competing in video games tournaments and writing about his experience. It’s not a big surprise that he mostly covers the latest trends from the gaming industry.