Zinder was Niger's capital up to 1926, after which it was moved to Niamey. Zinder was an important town in the 19th century as it sat on the crossroads of several important trade routes. It became very rich from the slave trade in the area. Nowadays it is Niger's second largest city; a pleasant, traditional market town.
The Grand Marché, or Dolé Market, is in the northeast of town. It is a bustling place where everything imaginable is sold. West of the market, on the norhtern side of town is the Zengou Quarter or old city. There are many interesting mud-brick houses. The Birnin Quarter to the southeast is a maze of narrow streets. You will see lots of old banco houses in the area, recognizable by their geometrical designs in colourful relief.
The Bernin Quarter boasts some of Niger's finest examples of Hausa architecture.
The 19th century Sultan's Palace is worth a visit, as is the nearby Grande Mosquée. People come to the Muslim Sultan to seek his advice. Further up the hill is a museum and on the western side of the Birnin Quarter stands an old Fort.
Most of the Zinder's commercial activity takes place in between the areas of Zengou and Birnin, on and around Boulevard de l'Indépendence. The gare routière is just off that boulevard. Most hotels are in the Zengou Quarter. Nearby are several restaurants. Zinder is 745 km east of Niamey.
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