Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro
Basilique Notre-Dame de la Paix
A giant domed church modelled on St Peter's Basilica and counted among the largest churches in the world, a classic long day trip from Abidjan.
The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is located in Yamoussoukro, the political capital, and was built under the direction of the country's first president, Félix Houphouët-Boigny. It was consecrated by the Pope in 1990. Modelled on St Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, its dome rises about 158 metres, and the colonnaded square and vast French stained glass are breathtaking. It is considered one of the largest churches in the world by area. Admission includes a guided tour, and visitors can climb to the dome's terrace for views. The drive from Abidjan along the motorway takes about 3 hours. It is often combined into a day trip with the crocodile pool at the presidential palace and the Houphouët-Boigny Foundation in Yamoussoukro, so plan for an early start and a late return.
Opening hours
About 08:30–17:00 (check on site)
Nearby sights
- Jacqueville
- Banco National Park
- Abidjan National Zoo
- Île Boulay
- Fondation Donwahi
- Museum of Civilisations of Côte d'Ivoire
- St. Paul's Cathedral
- Le Plateau