Parakou

Parakou
Central Parakou, 2019
Parakou
Location in Benin
Coordinates: 9°21′N 2°37′E / 9.350°N 2.617°E / 9.350; 2.617
Country Benin
DepartmentBorgou Department
Government
 • MayorInoussa Chabi Zimé
Area
 • Total
441 km2 (170 sq mi)
Elevation
324 m (1,063 ft)
Population
 (2012)
 • Total
206,667
 • Density469/km2 (1,210/sq mi)
Time zoneUTC+1 (WAT)

Parakou [pa.ʁa.ku] is the largest city in northern Benin, and the third-largest city in the country, with an estimated population of 206,667 people, and capital of the Borgou Department. Administratively, the commune of Parakou makes one of Benin's 77 communes.