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St. Paul's Cathedral: A Modern Icon of Abidjan

Discover Abidjan's iconic St. Paul's Cathedral: A modern architectural marvel with stunning views and rich cultural significance.

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St. Paul's Cathedral in Abidjan is a striking example of modern religious architecture. Designed by Italian architect Aldo Spirito, the cathedral stands as the mother church for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Abidjan and is one of the largest cathedrals in Africa. Its unique design and historical significance make it a must-see landmark in the city.

A brief summary to St. Paul's Cathedral

  • Monday 6:30 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 6:30 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 6:30 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 6:30 am-7 pm
  • Friday 6:30 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 6:30 am-7:30 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-9 am

Local tips

  • Visit on a Saturday afternoon for a calmer experience, as the Plateau area is less busy then.
  • Climb to the top of the cathedral for panoramic views of Abidjan.
  • Admire the stained-glass windows and mosaics that blend African culture with biblical stories.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Plateau district, St. Paul's Cathedral is easily accessible on foot. Orient yourself towards Boulevard de la République and walk towards the lagoon. The cathedral's distinctive silhouette is visible from afar. Be mindful of traffic and pedestrians along the way. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    SOTRA buses serve the Plateau area, with several routes stopping near St. Paul's Cathedral. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route from your location. A single bus ticket costs 200 XOF. Alternatively, you can take a 'boat bus' (water taxi) to the Plateau terminal and walk a short distance to the cathedral. Boat bus fares range from 100-200 XOF.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Abidjan. Negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey. A short taxi ride within the Plateau area should cost approximately 1,000-2,000 XOF. From other parts of Abidjan, such as Cocody, a taxi ride could cost between 3,000-6,000 XOF, depending on the distance and traffic.

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Discover more about St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Paul d'Abidjan) is a captivating architectural landmark in the heart of Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. Designed by Italian architect Aldo Spirito and commissioned by President Félix Houphouët-Boigny, the cathedral was completed in 1985 and has since become a symbol of the city. The cathedral's modern design is a radical departure from traditional religious architecture. The structure is dominated by a large, winged cross held in place by seven cables anchored to the triangular main building, creating the illusion that it's being drawn towards the Ébrié Lagoon. This unique design is meant to evoke the image of Christ spreading his arms, reminiscent of the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro. Some interpret the external feature of the cross as a devotee on their knees in prayer. The interior is just as impressive, featuring six stained-glass windows covering 370 square meters, designed by Aldo Spirito, which integrate Ivorian people, landscapes, and lifestyles with biblical stories. The cathedral also boasts modern mosaics depicting the Stations of the Cross and twelve panels made in polychrome ceramics. Visitors can climb the 230 steps to the balconies on the outstretched arms of the cross for panoramic views of Abidjan and its lagoons. St. Paul's Cathedral has a rich history, with Pope John Paul II consecrating its first stone in 1980 and dedicating the completed building in 1985. The cathedral has also served as a refuge for those fleeing violence, offering shelter to approximately 1,800 Ivorians during the 2010-2011 Ivorian crisis.

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