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Basilica of Our Lady of Peace

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Landmark

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

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The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro is a monumental structure often cited as the largest church in the world. Constructed between 1985 and 1989 during the presidency of Félix Houphouët-Boigny, it reflects his vision to transform his birthplace into a magnificent center for Ivory Coast. The architecture is heavily modeled after St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, though it surpasses it in the height of its dome. The building was finished almost entirely with imported Italian marble and magnificent stained-glass windows covering 7,400 square meters, depicting biblical scenes and local history. The basilica can accommodate up to 18,000 people inside and is surrounded by vast gardens and colonnades. Pope John Paul II consecrated the shrine in 1990 on the condition that a hospital be built nearby. Despite its religious significance, the funding of the project through state resources remains a topic of controversial debate regarding national development priorities.

Location: Côte d’Ivoire
Nearby: Toumodi (40 km)

Best time to visit & climate

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

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	28	28	27	27	26	25	25	25	26	26	26
Rain mm	14	57	108	131	152	199	122	103	144	142	71	26

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro is open to the public; you can visit the main nave, dome, and crypt. Entry is usually ticketed.

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Typical hours

The basilica is typically open daily from 9 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM. Sundays and holidays may have different hours, please check ahead.

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Photography

Photography is allowed inside the basilica, but without flash and tripods. The monumental dome and gilded details offer great photo subjects - especially from the gallery.

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Time needed

Allow at least two hours for a thorough visit, including climbing the dome and visiting the crypt. The vast esplanade invites a long walk.

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Combine with

Combine the basilica with a visit to the artificial lake of Yamoussoukro and the Presidential Palace. The Museum of Civilizations of Ivory Coast in Abidjan is also worth a detour.

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Getting there

Yamoussoukro is reachable by car or bus from Abidjan (about 3 hours on the A3). On site, you can hire a taxi or walk, as the basilica grounds are extensive.

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Insider tip

Visit the basilica in the late afternoon, when the light bathes the dome in a golden glow. Consciously compare the architecture with St. Peter's in Rome - the similarities are startling.

Geography

Coordinates

6.81050, -5.27360

Facts

The basilica stands 158 meters high, surpassing St. Peter's Basilica.
30,000 square meters of Italian marble were used for the construction.
The stained-glass windows were handcrafted in France.
The ground area of the structure is approximately 30,000 square meters.
The basilica can seat 7,000 people and accommodate 11,000 standing.
Total costs were estimated at approximately 300 million US dollars.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Presidential Palace Yamoussoukro<1 km · SEExplore →

Basilica of Our Lady of Peace3 km · SExplore →

Charles Konan Banny Stadium3 km · EExplore →

Yaouré Gold Mine25 km · EExplore →

Bandama Valley37 km · NEExplore →

Historic Center of Tiébissou38 km · EExplore →

Toumodi40 km · NWExplore →

Kossou Dam40 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

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

Yakro Parc🎡 recreation

Yakro Parc is a family-oriented theme park located near the monumental Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is this the largest church in the world?

Yes, according to the Guinness Book of Records, it is the largest basilica in the world by total area.

What are the opening hours?

Open daily from 08:00 to 17:30 for tours, except during religious services.

Is there an entrance fee?

Yes, for foreigners the entrance fee is about 2000 CFA (approx. 3 Euros).

Is there a dress code?

Respectful clothing is required (shoulders and knees covered).

Is photography allowed inside?

Photography is allowed, but without flash and with respect for the sanctity of the place.

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?