Old German government headquarters in Douala, Colonial administrative building in Douala, Cameroon.
The Old German government headquarters is a colonial-era administrative building with symmetrical facades and carefully worked materials. Its structure combines European architectural forms with practical adjustments made for Cameroon's tropical climate.
The building was established in 1891 as the center of German colonial administration and remained the main seat of power until 1916. After World War I, British and French authorities took control of the region.
The building shows how German construction methods and local building traditions came together in its design. Walking through its spaces, you can see the way materials and form reflect this meeting of two different worlds.
The building is located in central Douala and is reachable on foot from the city's main streets. Visitors should take time to look closely at the details of the facade and interior spaces, as careful exploration reveals the construction techniques better.
The building uses special materials and construction methods that were specifically developed to last in Douala's humid, hot environment. These adaptations are visible in many details of the structure and show how builders found practical solutions.
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