Libreville, Gabon.

Gabon; Libreville (Gabon)

Libreville is the administrative capital of the West African nation of Gabon. From its roots as a port city for the timber industry along the Gabon River, Libreville grew to national prominence during the French occupation in the nineteenth century and remained the capital after the country gained its independence in 1960. Libreville grew rapidly during the twentieth century, fueled by economic expansion, suburban sprawl, and the city's increasing importance as a transportation hub.