Banjul is the capital of The Gambia with a population of 34,828 as of 2003. It is located on St Mary's Island (or Banjul Island) where the Gambia River enters the Atlantic Ocean.

History

In 1816, the British founded Banjul as a trading post and base for suppressing the slave trade. It was first named Bathurst after Henry Bathurst, the secretary of the British Colonial Office, but was changed to Banjul in 1973.

On July 22, 1994, Banjul was the scene of a coup d'etat. To commemorate this event, Arch 22 was built as an entrance portal to the capital. The gate is 35 metres tall and the center of an open square. It houses a textile museum.

Attractions in the city include the Gambian National Museum , the Albert Market , Banjul State House , Banjul Court House , two cathedrals and several major mosques.

Economy

Banjul is the main urban area of The Gambia and holds the country's economic and administrative center. As the fourth most densely populated country in Africa, The Gambia has more than one urban area. Peanut processing is the country's principle industry, but bee's wax, palm wood, palm oil, and skins and hides are also shipped from its port.

Ferries sail from Banjul to Barra. Banjul International Airport lies near the city.