Former Dictator's Old Castle In Africa, From Abandoned To World Tourism Magnets

Chateau Viale Castle (Photo: Instagram/@learningdiariesgh)

JAKARTA - In a remote corner of West Africa, standing majestically an old castle that has traces of dark history. In the past, it was the residence of a dictator, now this castle has become the attraction of tourists from all over the world.

The abandoned village over the years turned into a dark tourist destination, attracting those curious about the political, power and mystery stories that surround it.

Reported by VOI from the Express page on Tuesday, February 11, Togo, a small country in West Africa, may not yet be the world's main tourist destination, but the number of tourists visiting there continues to increase from year to year.

With various interesting places such as Coco Beach, the arts and cultural center of Palais De Lomé, as well as Tamberma Village, which is famous for its bulwark towers, Togo has its own appeal for travelers.

However, outside of public tourist destinations, there is one place that attracts the attention of tourists for different reasons. In the city of Kpalimé, southern Togo, there is an abandoned castle which is now a dark tourist destination for adventurers who are looking for unique experiences.

The Castle, known as Chateau Viale, consists of a main building and a tower. Built in the early 1940s by a German lawyer who worked with the Togo government, the castle was originally used as his residence, before being handed over to the government. In 1978, the castle became President Togo's official residence at that time, Gnassingbé Eyadéma.

The administration of President Eyadéma is known for his authoritarian rule, which led to political instability in the country, a period known as the 'Krisis Togo'. For his safety, Eyadéma and his family lived in this castle until 1990. When needed, he will use a helicopter to fly to the capital Lom\'e and return to the castle at night.

Over time, Chateau Viale was damaged and is now full of graffiti. However, instead of being completely abandoned, this castle attracts tourists who are curious about its dark history.

A tourist who visited the castle in June 2024 shared his experience.

"Hotels with a very important history, so I suggest you rent a guide. The view is extraordinary, but it would be more beautiful to climb to the tower next to the ministry area. However, be careful because there is no safety or fence above," said the tourist.

"We happened to be in this area, so we decided to stop by. The story of a French-German lawyer who came on a horse, built this castle, then sold it to the president in his old age, until the future plan for this castle was very interesting. This place has an amazing sight, but unfortunately the condition is very neglected and in some parts it is even quite disappointing," said another tourist from China.

Even in unmaintained conditions, Chateau Viale remains a special attraction for tourists who want to trace the traces of Togo's history which is full of mystery. This village is now a symbol of a dark past as well as a new charm for those interested in historical tourism and exploration of abandoned places.