National Museum, Calabar
South South Nigeria Region
The National Museum in Calabar is a key cultural institution located in the historic city of Calabar, the capital of Cross River State in Nigeria. It houses a diverse collection of artifacts that reflect the rich history, traditions, and artistry of the Efik people and other ethnic groups of the region. The museum offers insights into Calabar's significant role as a port during the Atlantic slave trade and its transformation into a vibrant cultural hub. Visitors can explore exhibits on traditional crafts, local history, and colonial influences that shaped the city. The museum also highlights Calabar's pioneering achievements in education and healthcare in Nigeria. Architecturally, the museum blends traditional and colonial styles, providing an evocative setting for its collections. It serves as an educational resource, preserving and promoting awareness of the area's cultural identity. The museum is an essential stop for travelers interested in Nigeria's complex history and the legacy of the Cross River region.
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Astuce: The best time to visit the National Museum in Calabar is during the dry season (November to March) when the weather is more comfortable. It is advisable to check opening hours in advance and consider purchasing tickets ahead of time to avoid queues. Visitors may benefit from guided tours offered at the museum for a deeper understanding of the exhibits. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Combining a visit here with other cultural sites in Calabar enhances the overall experience.
Faits intéressants
- •Calabar was once described as the tourism capital of Nigeria due to major initiatives improving cleanliness and environmental friendliness.
- •Between 1725 and 1775, tens of thousands of enslaved Africans were shipped from Calabar to Europe and the Americas.
- •Calabar is home to Nigeria's first secondary school, the Hope Waddell Training Institution, established by Scottish missionaries.
- •The city was the first in Nigeria to have a hospital, post office, network of paved roads, and a botanical garden.
- •Missionaries Hope Waddell and Mary Slessor are commemorated in Calabar with streets and squares named after them.
Histoire
Calabar, originally known as Akwa Akpa, has a long history as a major seaport and trading center since the 15th century, particularly during the Atlantic slave trade.
The city was a focal point for the export of palm oil and slaves to Europe and the Americas.
In 1884, Calabar became a British protectorate, serving as the administrative headquarters for the Niger Delta until 1906.
The city was notable for several Nigerian firsts, including establishing the country's first secondary school and hospital.
Missionaries such as Hope Waddell and Mary Slessor played significant roles in social reforms and education during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Calabar's history is marked by its transition from a slave trade hub to a center of culture and education in Nigeria.
Guide du lieu
Main Exhibition Halls
These halls display artifacts related to the Efik people, local history, and the Atlantic slave trade, including traditional crafts, tools, and historical documents.
Colonial Era Section19th to early 20th century
This section showcases the British colonial influence on Calabar, featuring photographs, documents, and items related to missionary activities and administrative history.
Cultural Artifacts Gallery
A collection of traditional Efik art, clothing, and ceremonial objects that illustrate the cultural heritage of the Cross River region.
Contact
Téléphone: 0810 512 1701