Museum of Black Civilization
The Musée des Civilisations Noires is a major cultural institution located in Dakar. It was inaugurated on December 6, 2018 and represents a major milestone in the celebration and preservation of the cultural and historical contributions of African civilizations.
Historical background
The idea for the museum was first put forward by Léopold Sédar Senghor, the first President of Senegal. Senegalat the first World Festival of Negro Arts in 1966. However, it took more than five decades for this vision to become reality. Construction of the museum was mainly financed by China, which contributed $34 million to the project.
Architecture and design
The museum covers 15,000 square metres, including 5,000 square metres of exhibition space. Its architectural design is inspired by traditional African structures, in particular the impluvium huts of Casamance and the ruins of Great Zimbabwe. The building is a modern circular structure that stands out as a landmark in Dakar.
Historical background
The idea for the museum was first put forward by Léopold Sédar Senghor, the first President of Senegal. Senegalat the first World Festival of Negro Arts in 1966. However, it took more than five decades for this vision to become reality. Construction of the museum was mainly financed by China, which contributed $34 million to the project.
Architecture and design
The museum covers 15,000 square metres, including 5,000 square metres of exhibition space. Its architectural design is inspired by traditional African structures, in particular the impluvium huts of Casamance and the ruins of Great Zimbabwe. The building is a modern circular structure that stands out as a landmark in Dakar.
Collections and exhibitions
The museum houses over 18,000 pieces, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary works of art. Its collections are divided into several thematic exhibitions:
- Cradle of Humanityfocuses on the origins of man in Africa, including the first stone tools.
- African civilizations The Continuous Creation of Humanity: explores the history of African masks and the traditions of Sufism and Christianity in Africa.
- The Caravan and the CaravelleThis book examines the impact of the slave trade and the development of African communities in the Americas.
Museum structure and itinerary
These themed areas are spread over three levels:
Level 1 - Origins
- Galerie de l'Homme Noir
- African Prehistory Gallery
- Ancient Kingdoms Gallery
Level 2 - Civilizations
- Empires and
- Medieval kingdoms
- Galerie des Arts et des Techniques
- Gallery of Religions and Spiritualities
Level 3 - Diasporas
- Gallery of the slave trade
- Gallery of Resistance and Struggle
- Galerie des Indépendances et des
- Panafricanisms
The museographic tour is designed to immerse visitors in the history, culture and traditions of African peoples, from their origins to the present day.
Mission and vision
The museum aims to highlight Africa's contributions to the world's cultural and scientific heritage. It serves as a platform for presenting the rich and diverse histories of black civilizations around the world. The museum also plays a key role in ongoing discussions on the restitution of African artifacts held by European museums. Senegal has been proactive in requesting the return of its cultural heritage, with the museum positioned as a key institution to receive these returned items.
Importance
The Museum of Black Civilization is not just a repository of artifacts, but a dynamic cultural crossroads that fosters international collaboration and showcases contemporary African artists. It bears witness to Africa's rich cultural heritage and its ongoing contributions to global culture and knowledge.
Practical information
- Address: Rue Léopold Sédar Senghor, Dakar, Senegal
- Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 am to 6 pm
- Admission: FCFA 5,000 (adults), FCFA 2,500 (children).
FCFA (children and students) - Access: The museum is accessible by public transport (bus, cab) and has its own parking lot.
- Catering: On-site restaurant and gift store.