Brazzaville

Brazzaville is the capital and largest city of the Republic of the Congo, set on the north bank of the Congo River. Across the water lies Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, making this the only place in the world where two national capitals face each other across a river. Brazzaville is often called "Brazza la Verte" for its tree-lined avenues and relaxed, green character.

Founded in 1880 by the explorer Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza on an existing Teke settlement, the city became capital of the French Congo in 1904 and of French Equatorial Africa in 1910. Colonial-era buildings, memorials and the Congo-Ocean Railway link to Pointe-Noire remain part of its heritage, while independence in 1960 shaped its modern identity.

Key landmarks include the green-tiled Basilique Sainte-Anne, the Nabemba Tower, the Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza Memorial, the National Museum and the rapids of the Congo River. Districts such as Poto-Poto and Bacongo are known for their markets, crafts and music, while Centre-ville holds the main government and commercial buildings.

As the country's administrative and commercial hub, Brazzaville hosts government institutions, banks, oil-related business and regional conferences. Its food scene centres on saka-saka, poulet moambe and grilled river fish, and its bars and nightspots reflect Congolese rumba and modern music.

Leisure visitors find history, river views and culture, while business travellers benefit from a compact capital with hotels, meeting venues and direct access to Maya-Maya Airport.