What is the Capital of Côte d’Ivoire? Yamoussoukro
Capital City of Côte d’Ivoire: Yamoussoukro
City Overview
Yamoussoukro, the political capital of Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), is located in the central part of the country. It became the capital in 1983, replacing the previous capital, Abidjan. The decision to move the capital was made by then-President Félix Houphouët-Boigny, who was born in Yamoussoukro. His goal was to develop the city and bring political and economic power to this region, which is centrally located in the country.
The city of Yamoussoukro is situated in the Lacs District and covers an area of 3,500 km². With a population of about 355,000 (2023), it is a medium-sized city compared to other urban centers in the country, but it plays a crucial role in the country’s governance. Despite being the political capital, Yamoussoukro is not the largest city or the economic hub of Côte d’Ivoire—that distinction goes to Abidjan, which remains the country’s largest city and commercial center.
Yamoussoukro is known for its green spaces, wide boulevards, and modern infrastructure, but it also retains a more relaxed pace of life compared to Abidjan. The city is famous for being home to some of the country’s most important governmental institutions, such as the Presidential Palace, the National Assembly, and various government ministries. It is also an important religious center, with the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, one of the largest churches in the world, located here.
Area: 3,500 km²
Population: Approximately 355,000 (2023)
Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), UTC +0:00
Highest Mountain: Mont Richard-Molard, with an elevation of 1,500 meters (4,920 feet), is the highest point in Côte d’Ivoire, located near the western border.
Longest River: The Cavally River is one of the longest rivers in Côte d’Ivoire, flowing from the northwest to the Atlantic Ocean.
Although Yamoussoukro serves as the political capital, it has struggled to match the rapid urbanization and economic importance of Abidjan. Nevertheless, it remains an important symbolic center for the country, and its development continues to be a priority for the government.
Major Landmarks
Yamoussoukro boasts several significant landmarks that highlight both its political importance and its cultural heritage.
1. Basilique Notre-Dame de la Paix (Basilica of Our Lady of Peace)
The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is one of the most iconic landmarks in Yamoussoukro and one of the largest churches in the world. Completed in 1990, this impressive structure was designed by Italian architect Pierre Fabbri and is modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The basilica can hold up to 18,000 worshippers and features a dome that reaches 158 meters (518 feet) in height. It is an architectural marvel and an important religious and cultural symbol for Côte d’Ivoire.
2. Presidential Palace
The Presidential Palace is one of the key political landmarks in Yamoussoukro. The grand building serves as the official residence and office of the President of Côte d’Ivoire. Built during the presidency of Félix Houphouët-Boigny, the palace is a symbol of the country’s political authority and its move towards developing Yamoussoukro as a central political hub.
3. Parc National de la Comoé (Comoé National Park)
Located just outside Yamoussoukro, the Comoé National Park is one of the largest national parks in Côte d’Ivoire and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and buffaloes, as well as rare plant species. It is an important conservation area and a prime location for eco-tourism.
4. Fondation Houphouët-Boigny pour la Recherche de la Paix (Houphouët-Boigny Foundation for Peace Research)
This cultural institution, dedicated to the legacy of the first President of Côte d’Ivoire, is a major landmark in Yamoussoukro. The foundation is dedicated to promoting peace, dialogue, and cultural exchange. It regularly hosts conferences, exhibitions, and educational programs related to African peace and diplomacy.
5. Lake of the Presidential Palace
The Lake of the Presidential Palace is a man-made lake located adjacent to the Presidential Palace. The lake is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and is a tranquil spot within the city. It serves as a reminder of the grandeur and vision of Houphouët-Boigny for his hometown and the nation.
6. Bretigny Square
One of the main public squares in Yamoussoukro, Bretigny Square is a significant site for gatherings, events, and public demonstrations. It is surrounded by government buildings and has monuments dedicated to the history and leadership of the country.
7. Côte d’Ivoire National Museum
The National Museum in Yamoussoukro houses exhibits that highlight the rich cultural heritage of Côte d’Ivoire, including traditional Ivorian art, sculptures, and historical artifacts. The museum offers insights into the country’s history, ethnic diversity, and the impact of colonialism.
Climate Overview
Yamoussoukro experiences a tropical climate, with a distinct wet and dry season. The city is located near the Equator, so it is warm and humid throughout the year. The wet season typically runs from May to October, while the dry season lasts from November to April.
Monthly Climate Data
| Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Precipitation (mm) | Sunny Days (Average) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 26°C | 80 | 7 |
| February | 27°C | 70 | 8 |
| March | 27°C | 140 | 7 |
| April | 27°C | 200 | 6 |
| May | 27°C | 260 | 5 |
| June | 26°C | 210 | 5 |
| July | 26°C | 160 | 6 |
| August | 26°C | 150 | 6 |
| September | 26°C | 240 | 5 |
| October | 26°C | 230 | 5 |
| November | 26°C | 150 | 6 |
| December | 26°C | 120 | 7 |
Other Cities as Capital in the History of Côte d’Ivoire
Grand-Bassam (1893–1933)
Before Abidjan became the capital in 1933, Grand-Bassam, located on the coast near the Gulf of Guinea, served as the capital of the French colony of Côte d’Ivoire. It was an important port town and a major center of trade. However, due to the growth of Abidjan as a port and urban center, the capital was moved to Abidjan in 1933.
Abidjan (1933–1983)
For much of the 20th century, Abidjan was the capital of Côte d’Ivoire. It grew rapidly as a major economic hub and was considered one of the most developed cities in West Africa. However, in 1983, the government moved the capital to Yamoussoukro as part of an effort to decentralize power and encourage development outside of Abidjan.
Yamoussoukro (1983–Present)
Since 1983, Yamoussoukro has served as the political capital of Côte d’Ivoire. Although Abidjan remains the economic capital and largest city, Yamoussoukro has been developed as the political and administrative center of the country.
Country Facts
General Information about Côte d’Ivoire
Côte d’Ivoire is a West African country known for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and economic significance. It has a large agricultural sector, with cocoa, coffee, and palm oil being major exports. The country has undergone significant political challenges, including a civil war in the 2000s, but it has made strides toward reconciliation and economic growth in recent years.
- Population: Approximately 27.1 million (2023)
- Area: 322,463 km²
- Largest City: Abidjan (economic capital)
- Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
- Official Language: French
- ISO Country Codes: CI (ISO 3166-1 alpha-2), CIV (ISO 3166-1 alpha-3)
- National Anthem: “L’Abidjanaise”
- Independence: August 7, 1960 (from France)
- Government: Presidential republic
Côte d’Ivoire is one of the largest economies in West Africa, with a rapidly growing population and a diverse mix of ethnic groups and languages. The country has been rebuilding its economy after years of political instability, and it is considered one of Africa’s emerging markets.
