Located on Bushrod Island and Cape Mesurado, Monrovia, is the largest and capital city, and chief Atlantic port of Liberia. It is the focal point of political, economic, and cultural activities.
It was founded in 1822, during the administration of the U.S. Pres. James Monroe (for whom it was named) by the American Colonization Society as a settlement for freed American slaves.
Monrovia City commands an imposing view of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastal plains. The city and its outlying districts and suburbs occupy five square miles. The Liberian economy is predominantly agrarian, and raw materials, equipment, and consumer goods are imported.
Foreign ships registering under a Liberian “flag of convenience” have made Liberia one of the world’s foremost countries in registered shipping tonnage.
The city architecture, characterized by an old style of architecture reminiscent of that of the southern United States before 1860, is giving way to contemporary styles.
The population is composed of descendants of settlers from North America, most of whom arrived between 1830 and 1871, and of substantial numbers of immigrants from the interior.
More than two-fifths of the population of Liberia is under age 15; only about 5 percent is older than 60. The population is composed of descendants of settlers from North America, refugees, African nationals from other countries, and Europeans.
In the early 1990s, a bloody civil war disrupted Liberia’s economy. However, since the end of the conflict in 2003, and particularly after a democratically elected government was inaugurated in early 2006, efforts to rebuild the country’s economic infrastructure have been under way.
Things to do in Liberia
There are plenty of fun activities to do and fun places to go in Monrovia. The National Museum of Liberia located in Monrovia makes a nice stop over. Partly funded by UNESCO, it was established by an Act of the National Legislature in 1958 under the administration of Liberia’s 18th President, Dr William V.S. Tubman.
You have to pay an admission fee of about $5USD but the visit is worth every dime.
Ducor Intercontinental Hotel, while abandoned, is also a really good place to visit,especially for taking photos and getting the real view of the city. The view of the city of Monrovia and the Atlantic Ocean are seen from here.
Sapo National Park, the country’s largest protected area of rainforest and its only national park is another cool stop over. It contains the second-largest area of primary tropical rainforest in West Africa after Taï National Park in neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire.
Bernard’s Beach, Cape Mesurado, Kpatawee waterfalls are also nice spots to check out while in liberia.
Where to stay in Liberia
Depending on your budget, you won’t lack a place to put your head down after a long day of fun.
DoubleTree by Hilton Monrovia-Pasadena area is conveniently situated close to several points of interest. You can visit the Pasadena Convention Center or the charming boutiques, exotic stores, gourmet restaurants and exciting nightlife of Old Town Pasadena.