Arch 22 is one of the largest and most impressive buildings in The Gambia, it can be seen clearly from the plane when you fly out. As you approach Banjul from the Atlantic Coast resorts you come to a large roundabout containing a golden statue of a liberating soldier and framing this is the Arch of Arch 22.

On the other side of the arch is Independence Drive, leading into the heart of Banjul. The first 100 meters is lined with smaller golden statues representing the tribal diversity that makes up the Gambian Nation. The gardens around make a good walk and provide dramatic photo opportunities.

Built to commemorate the July 22 1994 peaceful coup when a young army officer Yahya Jemmah took control of the country ousting the existing President Jawara who escaped on an American frigate and I believe now lives in the UK.

The columns are so large that they comfortable house stairs and a lift. The initial floor over the arch houses a restaurant and bar and the very top portion houses a small museum, it is well worth a visit as it provided access to the two balconies the one over looking Banjul, The Gambia River and the north bank. The other towards the Atlantic resorts and the airport in the south of the country.

The views are quite spectacular and you can clearly see Banjul as an island crossed via Denton Bridge which you may easily have missed in the speeding traffic on your way to Banjul