Cotonou (Benin)

Cotonou (fka Kutonu) is the largest port city and economic centre of Benin. It is located in the country's southeastern part, between Lake Nokoue and the Atlantic Ocean. The city has population of around 770,000 (metropolitan around 1.2 million), with its urban area constantly expanding (notably to the west).

In addition to being the largest city in Benin, Cotonou is also the seat of government (though the official capital is Porto-Novo). It is home to most of the government buildings and diplomatic services in Benin. The city is a major port, as well as home to an airport and railway that links to Parakou. Other characteristics of Cotonou include Cotonou Cathedral, Cotonou Friendship Stadium, Cotonou Central Mosque, Ancien Pont Bridge and 20-hectare Dantokpa Market, which features a commercial turnover of more than one billion CFA Francs per day. Another familiar feature of the town is the motorcycle-taxis (Zémidjans).