Twinned with Milan since 23 April 1974
Mayor: Barthélémy Toye Dias (Mr)
Population: 1.150.000 inhabitants
Located at the southern end of the Cape Verde peninsula, in one of the best protected ports on the entire western African coast, the capital of Senegal was founded in the 19th century but shows signs of a rich and long history in which the influences of the Arab world and the European one mix with the local custom.
In fact, it offers examples of colonial and Muslim architecture (for example the mosque) to which is added a modern style that has been able to eclectically integrate technologically advanced elements with the traditional and classic aspect of the past.
The city stands out in the world artistic panorama for the Dakar Biennial - Dak'art - one of the largest in Africa, which showcases the best of contemporary continental creativity.
If its economy is based on food industries - among which industrial tuna fishing stands out - mechanical, textile, chemical, petrochemical and cement industries, Dakar stands out as the greatest commercial center in West Africa.
Its port, the country's maritime outlet, is a popular stopover on routes between Europe, southern Africa and South America.
Furthermore, industrial activity in the shipbuilding and petrochemical, textile, tanning, chemical, mechanical, wood and tobacco branches appears to be significant.
Crafts still occupy a very important place in the economy; the works of jewelers, blacksmiths and leather workers are famous.
