Nairobi is Kenya’s capital, the largest of the country and the fastest developing city on the continent. The life of Nairobi is mostly concentrated in the Central Business District. Here are situated the highest skyscrapers of the country with hundreds of offices. This is a busy place; nonetheless you can find many spots where you can unwind and relax. Here are some very beautiful parks. Check out the most popular attractions in Nairobi’s Center.
1) Railway Museum
Today Railway Museum is a part of the National Museum. It is situated not far from the Railway Station. The museum was opened in 1971. It will inform you about the history of the country’s railway network. There are locomotives built in the first half of the 20th century. You can also see some other interesting engines, a wonderful collection of old photos and other artifacts. Two vintage locomotives are still working and will take you on an excursion at a moment's notice.
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2) Times Tower
Times Tower is a modern building. It is also known as the new central bank tower and was finished in 1997. The tower is the tallest in the country and is mainly used for commercial offices. As it is well guarded by the police you cannot enter it without showing your identity card. The tower was designed to resist earthquakes.
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3) Parliament
The Parliament is a very attractive building both for local people and for the tourists. There is a clock tower adjoining it. It was built in the 1940s, when Kenya was still a British colony. There you can learn about Kenya’s political life. During its archives tour you may look through official documents, agreements and orders. If you want to see how the parliament functions you can watch the open sessions from the foreigners' gallery, but you should know that applause is forbidden.
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4) Jomo Kenyatta Mausoleum
Mzee Jomo Kenyatta was the first president of Kenya. He died in June 22, 1978, of a heart attack and the Mausoleum is the place where his body lies. The mausoleum is situated near the Parliament building. It is guarded night and day and photography is forbidden.
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5) Uhuru Park
Uhuru Park is a wonderful green park. It is situated right in the center of Nairobi and it affords a view of the city’s skyscrapers. Uhuru means freedom and it is the most famous park of the city. Its lovely pond attracts many visitors who relax and enjoy its calmness. Here, you can find plant species that are typical for Kenya such as Jacaranda, Nandi flame and Palm. Because of its size, the park is also used by citizens for meetings and protests.
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6) All Saints Cathedral
This beautiful Anglican Cathedral was opened in 1952. It was designed by an outstanding architect Temple Moore in the late Victorian style. The Cathedral is amazing, especially its Gothic interior with vaults, choir and a majestic altar. It was designed to bring inner peace, harmony and unity with the Creator. The cathedral has the largest organ in the country that was brought into Nairobi from Great Britain. Its sound awakens your soul.
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7) Central Park
Central Park is a very large space were you can walk and relax if you are tired of the daily routine. It is well-groomed and has been renovated to be more attractive and impressive than ever. There is the famous Nyayo Monument which is a pyramidal monument that was built in honor of Kenya’s second president, Daniel Toroitich arap Moi. Nyayo means "footsteps".
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8) Khoja Mosque
This amazing building is situated near the main city market. This area is very busy, but that does not prevent you from admiring its grandeur. The beautifully decorated minarets contrast with the Mosque’s interior which is rather plain without any bright decorations or luxurious details.
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9) Jevanjee Gardens
This small charming park was named after its founder. A.M. Jevanjee, a member of the Indian Community in Kenya and a successful businessman. Today it is very popular among preachers who preach there during lunchtime. The park has many trees and is a favorite rendezvous point for clerks who work in the offices surrounding the park.
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10) National Theater
In Nairobi cultural life prospers and flourishes, especially in the dramatic art. The National Theater is the main theater of the country. It presents classic and modern plays, foreign performances, musicals and various spectacles and shows. The theater allows only professional actors and the performances are really fascinating. There is also a brilliant Wasanii Restaurant on the first floor.
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