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Sanctuaire Marial: A Spiritual Oasis in Abidjan

A prominent Catholic shrine in Abidjan, known for its modern architecture, peaceful gardens, and as a place of pilgrimage and reflection.

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The Sanctuaire Marial, or Marian Shrine, is a prominent Catholic shrine in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, serving as a place of pilgrimage and a testament to the country's deep-rooted traditions. Known for its modern architecture, peaceful gardens, and spiritual atmosphere, it attracts both pilgrims and tourists seeking tranquility and reflection.

A brief summary to Sanctuaire Marial

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully when visiting, as it is a place of worship.
  • Take a stroll through the gardens for a peaceful experience.
  • Attend a service to experience the shrine's spiritual atmosphere.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From most parts of Abidjan, you can take a SOTRA bus to Attécoubé. Check the SOTRA website or app for the most convenient route and schedule. From the bus stop in Attécoubé, you may need to take a short taxi ride or 'woro-woro' (shared taxi) to reach the Sanctuaire Marial. The bus fare is approximately 200 XOF , and a short taxi ride could cost between 500-1500 XOF.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Abidjan. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A taxi ride from the city center to the Sanctuaire Marial in Attécoubé will likely cost between 1500-3000 XOF, depending on traffic and your starting location. Ride-hailing apps like Uber are also an option.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Attécoubé area, walking to the Sanctuaire Marial is feasible. Use a map app to navigate to the shrine at coordinates 5.3574504, -4.0391709. Be cautious of traffic when walking on busy streets.

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Discover more about Sanctuaire Marial

The Sanctuaire Marial National, also known as the Marian Shrine of Abidjan, stands as a beacon of faith and architectural innovation in the Attécoubé district. This significant religious site serves as Côte d'Ivoire's principal Marian pilgrimage destination, drawing thousands of pilgrims weekly from across the country and beyond. The shrine's history began in the 1970s when Christians in the Cité Fairmont area lacked a nearby parish. Cardinal Bernard Yago spearheaded the project, with President Félix Houphouët-Boigny contributing significantly to the construction costs. Pope John Paul II blessed the first stones in May 1980 and suggested the name "Notre-Dame d’Afrique" (Our Lady of Africa). The shrine was inaugurated on February 1, 1987. In 2012, it officially became the National Marian Shrine. The shrine's modern design, the work of Italian architect Aldo Spirito, is striking. A 53-meter conical bell tower dominates the site, featuring reinforced concrete and blue-painted helical roofs designed for natural ventilation. The tower's summit features a 6-meter stained glass window depicting the Virgin Mary in Assumption, while an 11-meter statue stands outside the building. Inside, the main church area can accommodate 800 people and displays artworks by Paul Siaka Coulibaly, including sculptures of the Virgin Mary represented as an Ivorian woman. The Banco plateau location offers panoramic views of northern Abidjan, with the structure resembling a finger pointing to the sky or a guiding light at night.

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