⛪ Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Yamoussoukro)
Ivory Coast
About This Sacred Site
The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro is the largest church in the world by area, even surpassing St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1990, it was built at the initiative of President Félix Houphouët-Boigny. The basilica features 7,000 square meters of stained glass, air conditioning, and a dome reaching 158 meters. Despite its massive scale relative to the small city, it serves as a pilgrimage destination and a symbol of Christian faith in West Africa.
Key Facts
- •The largest church in the world by area, listed in the Guinness Book of Records
- •Consecrated by Pope John Paul II on September 10, 1990
- •Features 7,000 square meters of stained glass from France
- •The dome reaches 158 meters, taller than St. Peter's in Rome
- •Built at a cost estimated at $300 million by President Houphouët-Boigny
Location
Coordinates: 6.8128, -5.2942
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