Dakar Railway Station, Dakar

Dakar Railway Station, with its candy-colored design, stands under the blue skies of Senegal. This station is not just a pretty facade; it symbolizes Senegal's colonial history and its role in French West Africa. Located next to Dakar’s Atlantic port, it has been crucial for the global transport of raw materials. Originally built as the terminus for a line starting in Bamako, it has seen better days, often falling into disrepair due to national conflicts.

The city of Dakar has grown around this key transport hub, despite periods of neglect. At one point, the station's future looked so uncertain that there were plans to convert it into a museum. However, recent restoration efforts and the introduction of the high-speed Dakar Regional Express Train (TER) have revitalized the station. Today, trains once again connect the harbor to the airport, marking a new chapter for this historic site.

Constructed in 1884, Dakar Railway Station initially linked the city to Saint-Louis, the then capital. Its architecture is a blend of tradition and modernity, featuring verandas, semi-circular arches, and colorful ceramic decorations. As of 2022, the station's vibrant colors are restored, and it serves an increasing number of destinations.