Libreville sits on a beautiful bay called the Gabon Estuary, where the Gabon River meets the ocean. On clear mornings, dolphins can sometimes be spotted from the seafront promenade. The city has a warm tropical climate all year round, which means flowers and fruit trees bloom in gardens and along roadsides in every season.
The city's name comes from the French word 'libre' meaning free, and 'ville' meaning town. Gabon was once a French colony, and French is still the main language used in schools, government and business today. But Gabonese people also speak many traditional languages – there are over 40 different languages spoken across the country.
The Port-Mole market in Libreville is one of the most exciting places in the city. Fishermen bring in their catches every morning, and market stalls are piled high with tropical fruit, vegetables, spices and handmade crafts. The smell of grilled fish and plantains from street-food sellers drifts through the air.
Libreville also has museums, a botanical garden and beautiful churches and mosques built in different architectural styles. On weekends, families gather at the beach, children play football on the sand and food sellers walk the shoreline with baskets balanced on their heads.