Asia Capitals Quiz
Test your knowledge of Asian countries and their capital cities.
🇸🇳 Senegal
Capital: Dakar
Dakar – Senegal’s Atlantic capital
Dakar sits on the Cap-Vert Peninsula along Senegal’s Atlantic coast and has long been one of West Africa’s major urban, cultural, and commercial centers. The area was inhabited by Lebu communities before French colonial expansion in the 19th century. France formally occupied Dakar in 1857, and the city later grew around its port, administrative functions, and transport connections.
📜 Timeline of Dakar
1444: Portuguese navigators reached the Cap-Vert region, beginning a long period of European maritime contact with the area.
1857: French forces formally occupied Dakar and established a colonial military presence on the peninsula.
1902: Dakar became the seat of the government of French West Africa, replacing Saint-Louis in that role.
1960: Senegal became independent from France, with Dakar serving as the capital of the Republic of Senegal.
Today: Dakar is Senegal’s largest city and a center for government, commerce, arts, music, and transportation.
📊 Quick Stats
Established
1857 as a French colonial town; older Lebu settlements predated it
Language
French (official), Wolof widely spoken
Currency
West African CFA franc
Geography
Coastal city on the Cap-Vert Peninsula, near the westernmost point of mainland Africa
Time Zone
GMT (UTC +0)
Calling Code
+221
Driving Side
Right-hand traffic
🏛️ Iconic Landmarks
Gorée Island
A UNESCO World Heritage site associated with the history and memory of the Atlantic slave trade.
African Renaissance Monument
A large bronze monument overlooking Dakar, created as a symbol of African independence and renewal.
Place de l’Indépendance
The central square in downtown Dakar, surrounded by administrative, commercial, and historic buildings.
Dakar combines its role as Senegal’s political and economic center with a strong presence in West African art, music, trade, and transportation. Its position on the Atlantic coast and the development of its port have shaped the city’s growth for more than a century.
