IFAN Historical Museum

Senegal


Gives a glimpse of island (and regional) history dating back to the 5th century. Exhibitions cover cultural lore, megalithic sites, key figures in the resistance against European colonisers – and in room 9, the heartbreaking slave trade. Head upstairs for fabulous views of Dakar from the old fortress walls.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Senegal attractions

1. Maison des Esclaves

0.26 MILES

Set in a former grand home allegedly used as a departure point for slaves, this is one of the most important monuments to the slave trade and features the…

2. Castel

0.46 MILES

Climb to the top of the Castel, the southern tip of the island, for great views, and seek out the cluster of tiny arts workshops filled with pieces by…

3. Gouvernance

2.14 MILES

A grand building anchoring the Place de l'Indépendance, la Gouvernance was the seat of power for the French colonial administration of Senegal.

4. Place de l'Indépendance

2.17 MILES

Dakar's central square is the beating heart of the city. Symmetrically laid out and home to countless cars, crooks and 1960s concrete blocks, it also…

5. Chambre de Commerce

2.21 MILES

On the northwest corner of Pl de l'Indépendance stands this grand colonnaded building, erected in 1910. It played a pivotal role for developing trade and…

6. Palais Présidentiel

2.27 MILES

Surrounded by sumptuous gardens and guards in colonial-style uniforms, the presidential palace was originally built for the colonial governors but now…

7. Train Station

2.28 MILES

The elegant facade of this train station inspires ideas of romantic train journeys (which are quickly wiped away once you enter the bleak interior).

8. Musée Théodore Monod

2.63 MILES

The is one of Senegal's best museums. Exhibitions delve into African art and culture with over 9000 objects on display. Lively displays of masks and…