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

Discover Abidjan's architectural marvel, St. Paul's Cathedral: a symbol of faith, art, and Ivorian culture, offering panoramic city views.

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St. Paul's Cathedral in Abidjan is a striking example of modern religious architecture. Designed by Aldo Spirito and completed in 1985, it serves as the mother church for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Abidjan, offering a unique blend of religious symbolism and contemporary design.

A brief summary to St. Paul's Cathedral

Local tips

  • Visit on a Saturday afternoon for a calmer experience, as the area is less crowded than during the week.
  • Climb the 230 steps to the top of the tower for panoramic views of Abidjan.
  • Attend the English-language mass held on Sundays at 11 am in the chapel.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From most parts of Abidjan, you can take a SOTRA bus to the Plateau area. Bus fares are typically around 200 XOF. Check local bus routes for the most direct option to St. Paul's Cathedral.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Abidjan. A short taxi ride to St. Paul's Cathedral from nearby areas in Plateau should cost approximately 1,000 - 2,000 XOF during the day. Ensure you agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about St. Paul's Cathedral

St. Paul's Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Paul d'Abidjan) is a prominent landmark in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, celebrated for its unique and modern design. Designed by Italian architect Aldo Spirito, the cathedral stands as the principal church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Abidjan. Its construction, commissioned by President Félix Houphouët-Boigny, was completed in 1985 and has since become a major attraction. The cathedral's architecture is both unique and modern, reflecting the aspirations of the Ivorian people. The design incorporates a large cross-shaped structure held in place by seven cables, creating the illusion that it is being pulled towards the lagoon. The exterior features colorful ceramic panels depicting the story of Christ, integrating African people, landscapes, and lifestyles with biblical narratives. Inside, the cathedral can accommodate up to 5,000 people and features six stained-glass windows covering 370 square meters. These windows, also designed by Aldo Spirito, depict biblical stories with a focus on the Ivorian people's faith. The interior is further adorned with paintings, mosaics, and twelve panels of polychrome ceramics. A climb up the tower's 230 steps rewards visitors with panoramic views of Abidjan. St. Paul's Cathedral has not only served as a place of worship but also as a refuge during times of crisis, sheltering approximately 1,800 Ivorians during the 2010-2011 post-electoral violence. The cathedral stands as a testament to faith, architectural innovation, and cultural integration, making it a must-see destination in Abidjan. Mass in English is held every Sunday at 11 am in the chapel.

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