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St. Paul's Cathedral: A Modern Marvel in Abidjan

Discover Abidjan's architectural gem: St. Paul's Cathedral, a modern and culturally rich religious landmark with stunning views and unique design.

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St. Paul's Cathedral in Abidjan is a striking example of modern religious architecture. Designed by Italian architect Aldo Spirito and completed in 1985, the cathedral is known for its unique, futuristic design, featuring a large cross-shaped tower and stunning stained-glass windows. It serves as the mother church for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Abidjan.

A brief summary to St. Paul's Cathedral

Local tips

  • Climb the tower for panoramic views of Abidjan and the Ébrié Lagoon.
  • Visit during the week for a less crowded experience, as the area is calmer on weekends.
  • Take time to admire the stained-glass windows and ceramic panels that blend biblical stories with Ivorian culture.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting the cathedral.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the cathedral's history and significance.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Gare Sud bus station in Plateau, take SOTRA bus line 6 towards the airport. The cathedral is located near the Plateau area, so a short ride should get you close. Single trip tickets can be purchased from the bus driver for around 200 FCFA. From other parts of Abidjan, use the SOTRA bus service, which has numerous routes throughout the city. Check local routes and schedules for the most convenient option. Keep in mind that public transport can be crowded.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Abidjan. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. From the city center (Plateau), a short taxi ride to St. Paul's Cathedral should cost approximately 1,000-2,000 XOF. Mobile app taxi services like TaxiJet are also available for potentially more convenience and safety. Be aware that taxi fares may increase at night or during peak hours.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Plateau area, St. Paul's Cathedral is easily accessible by foot. From Blvd. Angoulvant, head towards the cathedral, which is visible on a hillock overlooking the Bay of Cocody. The walk is relatively straightforward, and you'll be able to appreciate the surrounding cityscape. Be mindful of traffic and pedestrian conditions.

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Discover more about St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral, or Cathédrale Saint-Paul d'Abidjan, is a major landmark in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, celebrated for its bold and innovative design. Designed by Italian architect Aldo Spirito, the cathedral was commissioned by President Félix Houphouët-Boigny and completed in 1985. The structure is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the city's skyline. The cathedral's architecture is characterized by a large concrete cross anchored to the main building with seven cables, creating the illusion that the structure is being pulled towards the Ébrié Lagoon. The exterior features colorful ceramic panels depicting biblical stories, while the interior boasts six stained-glass windows covering 370 square meters, designed by Aldo Spirito to integrate Ivorian culture and biblical themes. The cathedral can accommodate up to 5,000 people, with seating for 3,500. Visitors can climb the tower to the balconies in the outstretched arms of the cross, offering panoramic views of Abidjan. The interior also features paintings, mosaics, and twelve panels of polychrome ceramics, adding to the cathedral's grandeur. St. Paul's Cathedral has also played a role in the nation's history, providing refuge for approximately 1,800 Ivorians during the 2010-2011 post-election crisis.

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