Foumban, Cultural center in western Cameroon
Foumban is a town in western Cameroon, known as a center for traditional craftsmanship and the seat of the Bamoun royal family. The town is shaped by artisan workshops, a royal palace, and a museum that documents the history and heritage of the region.
The palace was built in 1917 under Sultan Ibrahim Njoya, who also created his own writing system with about 500 characters. This script was based on local traditions and helped preserve Bamoun culture.
The name Foumban comes from the Bamoun language and means "place of craftspeople". Today the town is known for its strong tradition of handmaking, with carvers, weavers, and artisans working openly in workshops throughout the streets and selling directly to visitors.
The best way to explore the town is by walking through the artisan street, where workshops and shops line the streets closely together. It is advisable to come in the morning when craftspeople are actively working and willing to show their techniques.
In the hills near town sits Mount Mbapit, an extinct red volcano whose crater lake is surrounded by steep cliffs. According to local reports, thrown stones do not pierce the water, making it a puzzling natural oddity.
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