The Place de l'Obélisque is a vast paved square in central Dakar built around a tall white obelisk that commemorates the country's independence. It is one of the few large open spaces in the dense city core and acts as the unofficial venue for major political rallies, religious gatherings and the occasional concert.
On a normal day it is quieter — a few joggers in the cooler hours, kids practising football tricks, men playing checkers in the shade. The square is bounded by ministry buildings and the Patte d'Oie roundabout, where the road north toward the airport begins. It is more interesting to pass through than to plan around, but if your visit coincides with a Magal or a campaign event it is the place to be.