⛪ Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Yamoussoukro)
Ivory Coast
About This Sacred Site
The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast, completed in 1990, is the largest church globally by area, surpassing even St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Its design draws inspiration from St. Peter’s but incorporates unique African motifs and materials. The basilica was consecrated by Pope John Paul II and serves as a major pilgrimage site and symbol of Catholic faith in West Africa. Its grandeur and location in the political capital underscore the intersection of religion and national identity.
Spiritual Significance
Consecrated by Pope John Paul II on September 10, 1990, the basilica stands as the largest church globally by area, covering approximately 30,000 square meters. Pilgrims gather annually on the feast of Our Lady of Peace, celebrated on January 24, engaging in Masses that emphasize Marian doctrines as outlined in the Dogma of the Immaculate Conception. The basilica's 7,000 square meters of stained glass depict biblical scenes from both Old and New Testaments, serving catechetical functions during liturgies. Its design, inspired by St. Peter's Basilica, symbolizes the universality of the Catholic Church while reflecting local religious aspirations. The basilica hosts the Holy Rosary prayers daily, following the liturgical calendar prescribed in the Roman Missal. The presence of relics of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux draws devotees practicing novenas for intercessory prayers. Its establishment under President Houphouët-Boigny was intended to project peace and reconciliation, making it a pilgrimage destination for African Catholics seeking spiritual renewal.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What religion is Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Yamoussoukro) associated with?▾
Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Yamoussoukro) is a Christianity holy site located in Ivory Coast. It was established 1990 and is ranked #718 in our global directory of sacred sites.
When was Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Yamoussoukro) established?▾
Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Yamoussoukro) dates back to 1990. The largest church in the world by area, listed in the Guinness Book of Records
How many people visit Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Yamoussoukro) each year?▾
Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Yamoussoukro) receives approximately 200,000+ visitors per year. Consecrated by Pope John Paul II on September 10, 1990
What is Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Yamoussoukro) known for?▾
The largest church in the world, modeled on St. Peter's Basilica, in Ivory Coast's capital. Visitors come seeking pilgrimage, peace, blessings, healing. Features 7,000 square meters of stained glass from France
Related Holy Sites
Sacred places connected by country, religion, and purpose
⛪Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro
The world's largest church by area, inspired by St. Peter's Basilica.
🕌Grand Mosque of Yamoussoukro
A grand mosque in Ivory Coast's capital, reflecting the country's Islamic heritage alongside the famous basilica.
⛪Vatican City (St. Peter's Basilica)
The spiritual center of Roman Catholicism and home of the Pope.
✝️Church of the Holy Sepulchre
The site where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected.
