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Basilica of Our Lady of Peace

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Historical site
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Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Côte d’Ivoire)

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The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro is the largest Christian place of worship in the world and a monumental testament to the presidency of Félix Houphouët-Boigny, the first president of Ivory Coast. Built between 1985 and 1989 according to designs by architect Pierre Fakhoury, it was consecrated in 1990 by Pope John Paul II. The architecture is heavily inspired by St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, though it exceeds it in total height and covered area. The structure is adorned with over 7,000 square meters of handmade stained glass from France and can accommodate 18,000 worshippers inside. The Basilica stands in the middle of 37 hectares of landscaped gardens and is constructed using Italian marble and Ivorian hardwoods. Despite its enormous size and grandeur, the project was controversial due to its high cost during a period of economic challenge. Today, it remains a major pilgrimage site and one of West Africa's most visited landmarks, symbolizing national peace and spiritual unity.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272828272726252525262626
Rain mm14571081311521991221031441427126

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro is open to visitors; you can tour the main nave and the crypt. The vast esplanade and gardens are also accessible.
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Typical hours
The basilica is typically open daily from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM. It closes at noon and during services, so it's best to call ahead.
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Photography
Photography is allowed inside the basilica, but without flash and tripods. The exterior view with the huge dome and columns is an impressive subject you must capture.
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Time needed
A visit typically takes about an hour and a half to see the main areas. If you also want to explore the attached museum and surroundings, plan for two to three hours.
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Combine with
Combine the basilica with a visit to the Presidential Palace and the artificial lake in Yamoussoukro. The St. Augustine Cathedral in the city is also worth a detour.
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Getting there
Yamoussoukro is about 240 km north of Abidjan, reachable via the well-maintained A3 highway. On site, you can take a taxi to get to the basilica.
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Insider tip
Go early in the morning to experience the basilica without crowds - the size of the building feels even more impressive. Wear appropriate clothing as it is an active place of worship.

Geography

Coordinates
6.81050, -5.29630

Facts

  • The Basilica has a total height of 158 meters including the cross.
  • It was consecrated on September 10, 1990, by Pope John Paul II.
  • The building contains over 7,000 m² of French stained glass.
  • Construction took only four years, from 1985 to 1989.
  • It can accommodate up to 18,000 people inside.
  • The architect Pierre Fakhoury is of Ivorian-Lebanese descent.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Presidential Palace YamoussoukroPresidential Palace Yamoussoukro2 km · NExplore →
Charles Konan Banny StadiumCharles Konan Banny Stadium5 km · NEExplore →
Yaouré Gold MineYaouré Gold Mine24 km · EExplore →
Bandama ValleyBandama Valley39 km · NEExplore →
Historic Center of TiébissouHistoric Center of Tiébissou39 km · EExplore →
ToumodiToumodi42 km · NWExplore →
Kossou DamKossou Dam42 km · NEExplore →
OuméOumé49 km · WExplore →

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Sights in the town Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (1)

Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro⛪ religious

Designed by architect Pierre Fakhoury and consecrated in 1990, this massive basilica is officially recognized as the largest Christian church in the world.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is this the largest church in the world?
According to Guinness World Records, it is the largest basilica by area, inspired by St. Peter's.
Where is it located?
In Yamoussoukro, the official capital of Côte d'Ivoire.
Does entry cost anything?
A small fee is often charged for tourists (approx. 2000 FCFA), which includes a tour.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, respectful clothing is mandatory (shoulders and knees covered).
When is it open?
Usually daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except during services.
Basilica of Our Lady of Peace: where is it located?
Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is located in Côte d’Ivoire.
Basilica of Our Lady of Peace: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Basilica of Our Lady of Peace: why is it worth visiting?
The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro is the largest Christian place of worship in the world and a monumental testament to the presidency of Félix Houphouët-Boigny, the first president of Ivory Coast.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Toumodi — Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Côte d’Ivoire)
Toumodi
A historical city in the Bélier region.
Oumé — Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Côte d’Ivoire)
Oumé
A city in the Gôh region with an agricultural character.
Sakassou — Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Côte d’Ivoire)
Sakassou
The historic center of the Baoulé kingdom.
Taabo — Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Côte d’Ivoire)
Taabo
Known for its large hydroelectric dam.
Sinfra — Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Côte d’Ivoire)
Sinfra
A multi-ethnic city in the Marahoué region.

History & landmarks

Presidential Palace Yamoussoukro — Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Côte d’Ivoire)
Presidential Palace Yamoussoukro
The sprawling complex of the Presidential Palace is famous for its artificial lake, where sacred crocodiles live.
Charles Konan Banny Stadium — Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Côte d’Ivoire)
Charles Konan Banny Stadium
A modern football stadium in the political capital Yamoussoukro, built for international tournaments.

More places

🗺️
Historic Center of Tiébissou
A region that played a key role in the anti-colonial resistance of Samori Ture in the 19th century.
Historic Viaduct of Dimbokro — Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Côte d’Ivoire)
Historic Viaduct of Dimbokro
A significant colonial railway viaduct spanning the N'Zi River, which was important for the development of the country.
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Séguéla Gold Mine
A promising gold mining area in the Woroba District with state-of-the-art technology.
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Bondoukou Plain
The Bondoukou plain is a flat to gently undulating landscape in the east, near the border with Ghana.
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Yaouré Gold Mine
A state-of-the-art gold mine near Yamoussoukro, significantly contributing to the export economy.
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Bandama Valley
The Bandama valley cuts through the center of Ivory Coast, creating a broad depression between the eastern and western plateaus.
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Kossou Dam
A large dam forming the huge Lake Kossou, providing power to the center of Ivory Coast.
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Bonikro Gold Mine
An established gold mine that has been providing stable production volumes for years.