Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of Congo, is located along the northern bank of the Congo River, directly across from Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Founded in 1880 by French explorer Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza, the city serves as the country's political, cultural, and economic hub. Key landmarks include the Basilique Sainte-Anne, known for its striking green-tiled roof, and the Nabemba Tower, the tallest building in the country. Brazzaville is also a gateway to exploring the Congo River and surrounding rainforests, with its riverfront offering views of the bustling waterways. The city blends colonial-era architecture with modern developments and remains an important center of art, music, and Congolese culture.