Culture of Abuja. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Start your acquaintance with Abuja landmarks with a visit to the main mosque in the city – the Abuja National Mosque. The cupola of the mosque is covered with golden paint, so the shrine looks particularly eye-catching on sunny days. Traditional patterns decorate the façade of the building, and its inner décor is elegant and simple. The Abuja National Mosque is famous not only for its architecture but also for the fact that absolutely everyone is free to enter it. Followers of other religions simply need to wait for the moment when no Muslims are praying inside. The main hall of the mosque is incredibly light and spacious. Luxurious handmade carpets, giant chandeliers, and other interesting elements decorate the hall. Having visited the mosque, take a look at the exhibition of a small museum that is open nearby. This museum has a nice collection of Islamic art.

Abuja isn’t rich in museums, so sightseeing enthusiasts visit other cities in Nigeria in search of cultural treasures. Kanta Museum, which is open in the town of Argungu, Kebbi State, is one of the oldest museums in the country. It opened in 1958. The museum is open in the majestic Kebbi Palace – a former royal residence and an important architectural landmark. The palace almost hasn’t changed its original look, so this is an amazing example of Nigerian architecture. In the museum, visitors will find 11 exhibition halls with various items.

You can see collections of archaeological findings that were discovered during the exploration of the region, many ancient weapons, and household items. A collection of artworks exhibited in the Kanta Museum deserves a separate mention, as well as ethnographic artifacts. The palace is also the location of tombs of all Emirs of Kebbi – it is interesting to see them after the excursion. Before leaving the museum complex, take a look at the items sold in the local souvenir shop because it offers the best crafts made by the town’s artisans. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The Anglican Church of Nigeria is a unique landmark in Abuja. Do not even try to find a typical Christian cathedral in this African city. The main church in Abuja is an original and modern building. The façade of the building is asymmetrical. Broken lines and sharp edges have become a signature feature of this Christian shrine. The fan-shaped roof of the building is the most unusual element of the building. There is a pyramid-shaped bell tower in the central part of the building. Pointed windows and doors complete the unique look of the building. The church is just as unusual inside as outside. The inner décor has such fabulous elements as skillfully made stained-glass windows, so it is more interesting to visit the church on a sunny day.

When visiting the city of Kano, do not miss an opportunity to explore the signature historic landmark of the region, the Gidan Rumfa Palace. This is one of the oldest buildings in the area. Initially, the residence of the Emir of Kano, the palace was built yet in the 15th century. The architectural complex has an incredible area of approximately 130,000 square meters. An extensive restoration ended in the palace several years ago. It became possible to restore many old and original elements of décor. Many halls of the building are available for visitors and excursions. In the Gidan Rumfa Palace, tourists can see beautiful old drawings on the walls and ceiling, sculptures, and other artifacts.

Ship House is an interesting architectural landmark of modern times. It was built in 1975. Metal and concrete are the main materials used in the construction of the giant building. Ship House got its name because the building resembles a large ship. Numerous windows are an interesting peculiarity that makes the house unforgettable. Starting from the beginning, Ship House has been the residence of the Ministry of Defense. Today, there are also numerous conference halls and offices in the building. Surprisingly, tourists are allowed to enter the building. Charming restaurants and cute shops in Ship House await their guests. There is a picturesque park near the building. It is particularly pleasant to relax here on a hot day.

In the city of Jos, tourists can attend an interesting excursion to Jos Museum. Famous archaeologist Bernard Fagg was the founder of the museum, which opened its doors in 1952. Archaeological findings discovered by Fagg and his team in the region made up the core of the museum’s collection. Jos Museum exhibits ancient pottery and unique terracotta figurines, the age of which is more than 2,000 years. In recent years, the museum has grown in size, and several new thematic exhibitions have been open here. Today, visitors are welcome to attend the Pottery Hall and the Ceramics Hall.