Basilica of Our Lady of Peace
The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is recognized by Guinness World Records as the largest church in the world, surpassing St. Peter's in Rome upon its completion. Designed by Lebanese architect Pierre Fakhoury and consciously modeled on St. Peter's Basilica, its colossal dome rises 158 metres above the surrounding savanna, and its esplanade and interior can accommodate tens of thousands of worshippers. The structure is clad in imported Italian marble and lit through some 7,000 square metres of stained glass.
Construction was driven by Ivory Coast's first president, Felix Houphouet-Boigny, who funded the project from his private fortune at a reported cost near US$300 million, an outlay that drew international debate given the country's poverty. The cornerstone was laid in 1985 and the basilica was consecrated by Pope John Paul II on 10 September 1990, on the condition that an adjoining hospital also be built. One of the stained-glass windows famously depicts Houphouet-Boigny himself among the faithful.
Though its everyday congregation is modest compared with its immense capacity, the basilica is administered by Polish Pallottine priests under the Diocese of Yamoussoukro and stands as a defining landmark of the nation's purpose-built capital. Its sheer scale, gleaming colonnades, and Renaissance-revival silhouette make it one of the most striking and controversial religious monuments in Africa, drawing curious visitors and pilgrims from across the continent and beyond.
- Location
- 6.8111, -5.2969
- Local time
- 22:38 (Africa/Abidjan)
🕘 Visiting hours
| Mon–Sun | 08:00–17:00 |
Open daily for visits and worship; guided tours available. Hours approximate and may vary around Mass times and feast days.
✨ Saints & blessed venerated here
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Our Lady of Peace Saint
The basilica is dedicated to the Virgin Mary under her title Our Lady of Peace.
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Pope Saint John Paul II Saint
He consecrated the basilica in 1990 and is commemorated for the occasion.
Care & donations
Diocese of Yamoussoukro (Polish Pallottines)
Donations accepted on-site and toward upkeep of the basilica and its works.
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