City of Lagos, Nigeria: description, time, attractions

Lagos (Nigeria) is the largest city in the country, where a large number of tourists come. It is located on the shores of the Gulf of Guinea, which belongs to the Atlantic Ocean. The population reaches seven million, and more than 12 million people live in the district. So, what is Lagos and what is a tourist to see in the city? We will discuss this further.

Historical reference

The territory on which the modern city of Lagos is located, formerly belonged to the African Yoruba tribe. The current name of the locality (which translates as "lake") is due to sailors from Portugal, who landed there in the 15th century and began to trade slaves. Later the slave trade was banned by the Nigerian king in the 19th century. From the middle of the same century, it was already British possessions.

Nigeria became an independent state only in 1960, when the process of gradual economic growth began. Due to this, Lagos (Nigeria) is a real metropolis, the territory of which is almost equal to the lands of the same state.

Climatic conditions in Lagos

The city is on the African continent near the equator. There are special climatic conditions. Almost all the year round, the temperature reaches 25-26 degrees Celsius. The hottest time is the period from November to May. In these months, the temperature is in the range of 27-30, and sometimes reaches a mark of 35-38 degrees. Thus, it is customary to define the climate as subequatorial. Time in Nigeria (Lagos) is determined by the time zone UTC / GMT +1 hour.

The natural world

The flora and fauna in the area around Lagos are quite diverse. There is a large number of swamps and mango forests (especially in the north of the city), where many species of crocodiles, monkeys and snakes live. The presence of beaches with golden sand near the ocean with clear water, as well as the opportunity to explore the underwater world makes the southern coast an attractive tourist destination.

All year round tourists come here from all over the world to plunge into the extraordinary African culture.

Arrangement of the city of Lagos

The center of the metropolis is located on the territory of the island of the same name, which is connected to the mainland by means of a bridge and a dam, passing to the neighboring island called Iddo. Here you can find a large number of buildings for offices, and in the old neighborhood - traditional buildings that stand on narrow, crooked streets.

Lagos is a port city with its own history and exotic color. The main part of the metropolis is quite equipped. Here are located government buildings, churches and many residential high buildings.

The former capital of Nigeria provides for the presence of all signs of a modern African way of life. This also applies to congested streets with a high degree of development. When the buildings here were built massively, they did it in different styles. That is why in Lagos you can find both traditional houses, and unusual Brazilian baroque. In the central part of the city there are super modern buildings, as well as production facilities. The special flavor of Lagos ensures the presence of ducts and channels connecting its areas. Of course, this is Africa, and like in many other cities on the continent, there are quarters for the poor, but other parts of the city are quite equipped.

At night, you will be surprised at how beautiful the Carter Bridge is, the length of which is two kilometers. From it opens a picturesque view, especially in the evening, when lights are lit.

Economy of the city

Lagos is quite well developed transport. This is due to the fact that it is a large commercial center. In addition to being a port city, there is also a modern airport, which is considered the largest on the African continent. Railway transport is not developing fully, but at the moment, construction work is being carried out in Lagos to create rail transport. There are too many cars in the city, because of what the roads are heavily loaded, and often there are traffic jams on the streets. However, passenger transportation operates according to the speed principle: an average of ten thousand people in 60 minutes in all directions (there are eight of them).

It is in Lagos that the Nigerian industry is concentrated, and also the exchange companies. The city also attracts travelers with a large number of comfortable hotels, and also the building of the national theater, where you can see the performances and get to know the local culture. Also, Lagos is famous for its huge bazaars, located on impressive territories. Here you can buy everything from food to books and clothes.

Port of Lagos, Nigeria

The city is the largest port in the country, with annual cargo turnover of six million tons. Its territory is located on the continent, in the area called Apapa, and is estimated at one hundred and twenty hectares. The port of Lagos (Nigeria) has a long history. Due to the growing water transport in the 19th century, there were problems with access to the city's lagoon. It was then that the port area began to develop.

) считается наиболее крупным в Нигерии. And to date, one of the container terminals (called "Apapa" ) is considered the largest in Nigeria.

The city's attractions

The most famous landmark in Lagos is the local bazaars. One of the markets called "Oshodi" has a daily capacity of four million people. Megapolis Lagos (Nigeria) traveler reviews earns enthusiastic. It is interesting because here is the building of the National Museum, which contains expositions with historical antiquities of different epochs, telling about the history of not only a separate state, but the entire continent.

Under the control of UNESCO is the traditional settlement of Sukur, in which people follow to this day archaic regulations. In the protected area of Okomu you can see the flora and fauna of Nigeria. A large number of species are rare or even disappearing, for example, some species of monkeys and birds. Here you can see a real African elephant and many other animals.

Also mention should be made of the architectural landmarks of Lagos, one of which is the Temple of All Nations. This monument is known for its color and beauty. The synagogue is popular among believers, who even make a pilgrimage to it. In addition to the religious purpose, it is a peculiar symbol of the city. Lagos is also famous for the palace of Iga Idungaran, built in the traditional Yoruba style. The history of its erection began three hundred years ago.