Masonic Temple

The Masonic Temple on Capitol Hill is one of Monrovia's most distinctive colonial-era buildings, a white neoclassical structure with columns and ceremonial steps that reflects the unusual history of Freemasonry in Liberia. The fraternity arrived with the first American settlers in 1822 and for over a century formed the social backbone of the Americo-Liberian ruling class.

The building was damaged during the civil wars but has been partially restored and remains active. The exterior and the immediate surroundings are accessible to visitors, and the building's symbolic role in Liberian history makes it a significant stop on any tour of colonial Monrovia. Located near the executive mansion in the government district.

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A story
Freemasonry arrived in Liberia with the first American settlers and became deeply woven into the political and social fabric of the country. For most of the 19th and early 20th century, membership in the Masonic lodge was a near-requirement for political advancement — more than a dozen Liberian presidents were Freemasons. The temple remains the most architecturally distinctive building in central Monrovia.

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