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Place de Paix: A Monument to Resilience

Honoring the courageous women who marched for freedom in Grand-Bassam, a landmark of Ivorian resilience and history.

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Place de Paix in Grand-Bassam is a historical landmark commemorating the women's march of 1949, a pivotal event in Ivory Coast's struggle for independence from French colonial rule. It stands as a symbol of the courage and determination of the women who protested the unjust imprisonment of political leaders.

A brief summary to Place de Paix

  • 6747+PRC, Grand-Bassam, CI

Local tips

  • Take a moment to reflect on the historical significance of the Place de Paix and the women's march it commemorates.
  • Combine your visit with a tour of Grand-Bassam's colonial district to understand the context of the 1949 protest.
  • Visit the nearby National Costume Museum to learn more about the cultural heritage of Ivory Coast.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Place de Paix is centrally located in Grand-Bassam, near the bus station. From most points in the city center, including the main colonial buildings, it is easily accessible on foot. Walking allows you to appreciate the architecture and atmosphere of Grand-Bassam. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving in Grand-Bassam by public transport (bush taxi or bus) from Abidjan, you will likely arrive at the Gare Routière (bus station) which is located directly beside the Place de Paix roundabout. The cost of a bush taxi from Abidjan to Grand-Bassam is around 500 CFA. From the bus station, the Place de Paix is immediately visible.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Grand-Bassam. Inform the driver you wish to go to 'Place de Paix'. As a well-known landmark, most taxi drivers will be familiar with the location. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A short taxi ride within Grand-Bassam should cost approximately 1000-2000 CFA.

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Discover more about Place de Paix

Place de Paix, or Peace Square, in Grand-Bassam, Ivory Coast, is more than just a roundabout; it's a poignant reminder of the country's fight for freedom. The square is the site of a monument dedicated to the women's march on Grand-Bassam prison in December 1949. During this march, a multiethnic group of women traveled from Abidjan to Grand-Bassam to protest the imprisonment of anti-colonial political leaders. These leaders, members of the PDCI-RDA, had been jailed without trial. The women, numbering possibly two thousand, organized to demand their release. They faced French soldiers who attempted to halt their progress, resulting in injuries and prosecutions. Although the march didn't immediately free the prisoners, it became a symbol of resistance. The monument in Place de Paix, erected in 1999, honors these women. Its inscription recognizes their role in reclaiming the freedom of the imprisoned men. While some descriptions of sculptures intended for the square may not fully align with what is currently present, the square remains a significant landmark. Place de Paix serves as a testament to the strength and bravery of the women who played a vital role in Ivory Coast's history.

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