Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast West Africa

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix) Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire), is a Roman Catholic minor Basilica and happens to be the largest Catholic church in the world. This magnificent edifice was built by the first President of Ivory Coast, Felix Houphouet-Boigny. The Basilica is situated on a donated piece of land which used to be part of Felix Houphouet-Boigny’s coconut farm in his home town of Yamoussoukro. The remnant of the coconut farm remains visible today around the Basilica.
The construction of the Basilica was started in 1985 and completed in 1989. The Basilica was consecrated in 1990 by Pope John Paul II.
The approach to the Basilica is about 1 kilometer long. It is paved with marble centrally with asphalt driveway on either side circling the Basilica. There are massive gardens on either side of the approach road supposedly patterned on the gardens of the Palace of Versailles in France.
The design of the Basilica is that of a Christian Cross. The Basilica is made of marble. There are two semicircular colonnades, patterned on the Doric colonnades of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, in front of the Basilica. Two minor domes are present on each of the colonnades. The two colonnades encircle a large dove image imprinted on the floor of the massive forecourt, perhaps signifying peace which is the central theme of the Basilica. The two colonnades lead to a large rectangular porch or façade which forms the lower portion of the cross. Columns are plentiful and are of non-uniform design. There is a terrace on top of the porch supported by huge columns.
The nave of the Basilica is round and can seat 7000 worshipers. There is also room for additional 11000 standing worshipers resulting in a total capacity of 18,000. The nave is free standing under the dome which is supported on pillars and columns. The stained glass inside the dome has a dove inscribed centrally.
There are several unique features of the Basilica among which are; the curved wooden pews made of hard African Iroko wood, each pew has its own air-condition vent, the African design incorporated into the canopy over the main altar, extensive amount of stained glass windows and doors, unique stained glass image of the nativity containing images and or names of those involved in the concept, design and building of the Basilica, a wooden sculpture of the ‘Notre Dame De Tout Le Monde’, and the tallest dome in the world if you consider the huge ornamental cross on top of the dome. In addition to the main altar, there are two smaller or minor altars at the rear end of the basilica within the nave.
My guide related an inspirational story about the ‘Notre Dame De Tout Le Monde’. This wooden sculpture of the Virgin Mary was conceived by an incarcerated Muslim criminal in Yamoussoukro prison. Apparently, this individual had a dream in which he had a conversation with the Virgin Mary. He reasoned that if the Virgin Mary could appear to him, a Muslim, She obviously belonged to the whole world and not to Christians alone. He decided to erect a sculpture to the Virgin Mary; ‘Notre Dame De Tout Le Monde’ (‘Our Lady of the Whole World’). At close range, the sculpture presents the Virgin Mary with anguish on her face! However, as you walk away from the sculpture the anguish turns into a smile! Perhaps telling us that all will be well. A rather remarkable appearance to behold.
There are two identical large mansions on the back end of the property; one serves as the residence for the Pope and the other serves as the rectory for the rector and administrators of the facility.
A children’s hospital is located just outside the east gate of the facility. Minor administrative offices are also located adjacent to the fence on the east entrance of the facility.
I am particularly grateful for the opportunity to photograph this unique Basilica which I believe is a unique gift to Christendom and the African continent. I am also grateful for the opportunity to meet with the rector, Rev. Fr. Franck, sca, his assistant, Irene and the seminarian, Peter. Attending the Good Friday Passion of Christ and service at the Basilica is the highpoint of my Christian life.
My hope is that this Basilica will become a rallying point for Catholics on the African continent and a place of pilgrimage for many more people from around the world.

More information could be found on this website at;
https://www.octavephotographers.com/Blog/Basilica-of-our-Lady-of-Peace-Yamoussoukro-Ivory-coast
and
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilica_of_Our_Lady_of_Peace
http://www.cotedivoiretourisme.ci/.../612-la-basilique-notre-dame-de-la-paix.
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  • The major dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix)  Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast Cote d'Ivoire. A minor dome on the colonnade is on the right. The columns as seen from the East approach. On the far left is one of the two residencies behind the Basilica. This one is the Papal residence.

    The major dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix) Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast Cote d'Ivoire. A minor dome on the colonnade is on the right. The columns as seen from the East approach. On the far left is one of the two residencies behind the Basilica. This one is the Papal residence.

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  • View of the major Aisle to the high altar,  pews, and  stain glass windows of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Cote d'Ivoire.

    View of the major Aisle to the high altar, pews, and stain glass windows of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Cote d'Ivoire.

    IMG_4296-2

  • Aisle to the high altar and pews, stain glass windows of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast Cote d'Ivoire.

    Aisle to the high altar and pews, stain glass windows of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast Cote d'Ivoire.

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  • Close up of the Canopy over the high altar, aisle, roof and walls of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix)  Cote d'Ivoire Ivory Coast.

    Close up of the Canopy over the high altar, aisle, roof and walls of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix) Cote d'Ivoire Ivory Coast.

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  • Close up of the Canopy and chandelier over the high altar, stain glass windows of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Cote d'Ivoire.

    Close up of the Canopy and chandelier over the high altar, stain glass windows of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Cote d'Ivoire.

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  • Golden cross over the high altar canopy of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire.

    Golden cross over the high altar canopy of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire.

    IMG_4303

  • Our Lady of The Whole World, Notre Dame de Tout Le Monde, in the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire.

    Our Lady of The Whole World, Notre Dame de Tout Le Monde, in the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire.

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  • Our Lady of The Whole World, Notre Dame de Tout Le Monde.

    Our Lady of The Whole World, Notre Dame de Tout Le Monde.

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  • Our Lady of The Whole World, Notre Dame de Tout Le Monde

    Our Lady of The Whole World, Notre Dame de Tout Le Monde

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  • Our Lady of The Whole World, Notre Dame de Tout Le Monde.

    Our Lady of The Whole World, Notre Dame de Tout Le Monde.

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  • Approach road to the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast. The approach road is about I kilometer long and paved with marble with asphalt driveways on either side.

    Approach road to the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast. The approach road is about I kilometer long and paved with marble with asphalt driveways on either side.

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  • Approach road to the basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame  de la Paix) Yamoussoukro Cote d'Ivoire Ivory Coast. It is paved with marble centrally with asphalt driveway on either side.

    Approach road to the basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix) Yamoussoukro Cote d'Ivoire Ivory Coast. It is paved with marble centrally with asphalt driveway on either side.

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  • The main dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire. The tallest Basilica dome in the world.

    The main dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire. The tallest Basilica dome in the world.

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  • Gardens around the Basilica of Our Lady Of Peace Yamoussoukro Cote d"ivoire, Ivory Coast West Africa. Remnant of coconut plantation, lake, and the city of Yamoussoukro in the distance.  West entrance and minor dome

    Gardens around the Basilica of Our Lady Of Peace Yamoussoukro Cote d"ivoire, Ivory Coast West Africa. Remnant of coconut plantation, lake, and the city of Yamoussoukro in the distance. West entrance and minor dome

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  • Gardens around the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Cote d'Ivoire.

    Gardens around the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Cote d'Ivoire.

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  • Facade, columns and one of the many large windows of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire.

    Facade, columns and one of the many large windows of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire.

    IMG_4371

  • Looking up inside the Dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast Cote d'Ivoire  with image of a dove at the center.

    Looking up inside the Dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast Cote d'Ivoire with image of a dove at the center.

    IMG_4377-2

  • Close up inside of the Dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Ivory Coast, Cote d'Ivoire with image of a dove at the center

    Close up inside of the Dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Ivory Coast, Cote d'Ivoire with image of a dove at the center

    IMG_4381

  • Close up Chandelier over the high altar of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix, Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire. A gold Cross is suspended over the altar.

    Close up Chandelier over the high altar of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix, Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire. A gold Cross is suspended over the altar.

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  • The high altar canopy and the two minor altars/chapels, one on either side behind the main altar. Stained glass windows and Iroko wood pews in the nave of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix, Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire. Columns of varying sizes and shapes.

    The high altar canopy and the two minor altars/chapels, one on either side behind the main altar. Stained glass windows and Iroko wood pews in the nave of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix, Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire. Columns of varying sizes and shapes.

    IMG_4418

  • The high altar canopy of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast and the two minor altars/chapels, one on either side behind the main altar. Stained glass windows and iroko wood pews. Columns of varying sizes

    The high altar canopy of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast and the two minor altars/chapels, one on either side behind the main altar. Stained glass windows and iroko wood pews. Columns of varying sizes

    IMG_4419

  • Aerial view of the high altar and canopy, and the two minor altars/chapels one on either side behind the main altar of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast Cote d'Ivoire. Stained glass windows and Iroko wood pews. Columns of varying sizes.

    Aerial view of the high altar and canopy, and the two minor altars/chapels one on either side behind the main altar of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast Cote d'Ivoire. Stained glass windows and Iroko wood pews. Columns of varying sizes.

    IMG_4425

  • Aerial view of the high altar surrounded by the free standing nave and curved Iroko pews in the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix, Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire.

    Aerial view of the high altar surrounded by the free standing nave and curved Iroko pews in the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix, Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire.

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  • Close up of the high altar Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix)  Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast. Côte d'Ivoire.

    Close up of the high altar Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix) Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast. Côte d'Ivoire.

    IMG_4448-2

  • Frontage and porch of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix, Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire. The approach road in the distance.

    Frontage and porch of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix, Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire. The approach road in the distance.

    IMG_4449

  • Porch and main entrance of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace , Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix, Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast , Côte d'Ivoire. Many columns. Large windows and doors.

    Porch and main entrance of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace , Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix, Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast , Côte d'Ivoire. Many columns. Large windows and doors.

    IMG_4452

  • Close up Main front door to the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire.

    Close up Main front door to the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire.

    IMG_4455

  • Columns and large windows and doors of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix), Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire.

    Columns and large windows and doors of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix), Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire.

    IMG_4456

  • Front facade with major and minor domes  of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix), Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire.

    Front facade with major and minor domes of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix), Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast, Côte d'Ivoire.

    IMG_4474

  • Front facade with major and minor domes  of the basilica and the colonnades of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix) Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Cote d'Ivoire.

    Front facade with major and minor domes of the basilica and the colonnades of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix) Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Cote d'Ivoire.

    IMG_4520

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    The major dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (Basilique Notre Dame de la Paix)  Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast Cote d'Ivoire. A minor dome on the colonnade is on the right. The columns as seen from the East approach. On the far left is one of the two residencies behind the Basilica. This one is the Papal residence.
    View of the major Aisle to the high altar,  pews, and  stain glass windows of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast, Cote d'Ivoire.
    Aisle to the high altar and pews, stain glass windows of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace Yamoussoukro Ivory Coast Cote d'Ivoire.