The main attractions of Côte d'Ivoire. Main attractions of Côte d'Ivoire Côte d'Ivoire attractions and popular places

Ivory Coast- the state in West Africa... In the north it borders with Mali and Burkina Faso, in the east - with Ghana, in the west - with Liberia and Guinea. In the south it is washed by the Gulf of Guinea.

The name of the country comes from the French cote - "coast", ivoire - "ivory".

Capital: Yamoussoukro (the official capital), the seat of the president and government, Abidjan.

Square: 322460 km2.

Population: 16393 thousand people

Administrative division: The state is divided into 50 departments.

Form of government: Republic

Head of State: The president. National People's Assembly (unicameral parliament).

Big cities: Abidjan, Bwake, Daloa.

Official language: French.

Religion: 65% are pagans, 23% are Muslims, 12% are Christians (mostly Catholics).

Ethnic composition: 23% - baule, 18% - beta, 15% - senufo, 11% - malinke.

Currency: CFA franc = 100 centimes.

Climate

In the southern part of the state, the climate is tropical and humid, with heavy rains (up to 2400 mm per year). In the north - subequatorial, precipitation is 1100-1800 mm per year. The temperature ranges from + 22 ° C to + 32 C. The heaviest rains are from April to July, as well as in October-November.

Flora

The coastal area is dominated by dense tropical forests with over 600 tree species. In the north and center of the country lies a vast savannah.

Fauna

Jackal, hyena, panther, elephant, chimpanzee, crocodile, brush-eared pigs, several species of lizards and snakes live on the territory of the republic. In the savannas there are antelopes, leopards, cheetahs, and servals.

Rivers and lakes

The main rivers are Sasandra, Bandama, Comoe.

sights

In Yamoussoukro - the world's largest cathedral (height 158 ​​m), built on the model of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican; in Abidjan there is a large market for traditional goods, picturesque parks.

Useful information for tourists

If you are interested in African history, art or music, the Ivory Coast is the place to get the most out of these aspects of local culture.

The art of Côte d'Ivoire is considered one of the best in West Africa and each ethnic group is very distinctive. The Baul and Yakuba people are widely known for their original wooden sculptures, usually the traditional wooden Mask is a very accurate depiction of a human face, slightly exaggerated to more fully convey the character ...

Another characteristic product of local artisans is the large spoon for cooking rice, which are human-shaped and serve as a great local souvenir.

Cote d'Ivoire is a country located in West Africa. Since 1960, the state has been independent. Official language it is French. On average, the air temperature is +27 Celsius, it is summer here all year round. In the north of the country there is savanna, but most of the state is covered by a flat landscape with tropical forests. Now let's consider the sights of the country:

Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace
This cathedral is largest temple in the world. It is located in the city of Yamoussoukro. Its dimensions are larger than the Cathedral of St. Peter, which is located in Rome.

Facts and myths

Three hundred million dollars were spent on the construction of this cathedral, and it took four years to build (from 1985 to 1989). The building is designed after the model of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, but it is larger in size. The cathedral is built entirely of marble, which was brought from Italy. It is decorated with French stained-glass windows.

The Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace caused a lot of controversy over its luxury, because the country was not rich in wealth, in many houses there was not even a running water system. In addition, the construction of the cathedral doubled the national debt of the country.

John Paul II (Pope) agreed to consecrate the cathedral only because a hospital would be erected nearby. In addition, the Pope himself personally laid the first stone on the field. Now you can see it, since no one has ever built a hospital.

What to see

Even the slightest hint of African culture cannot be seen in the interior of this cathedral, since it was very similar to St. Peter's Basilica. Fakuri (the building's architect) enlarged the cross at the top and the dome to make the building larger. The final height is 158 meters. 18 thousand people - this number of people can simultaneously fit in it. Of these, 7 thousand seats, and the rest are standing.

The rays that penetrate the stained glass windows illuminate the walls with rainbow light, creating an amazing sight. On the stained-glass windows, which are next to Jesus Christ, you will see the image of the chief architect and the president in the role of the biblical wise men. They kneel and give a gift to Jesus.

Temple of Marial
It is an unusual temple, surrounded by a spiral road.

Facts and myths

This temple is located in the capital of the state. The name of the temple is due to John Paul II.
It was opened in February 1987. The opening was attended by the Archbishop of Abidjan.

What to see

Colored stained glass windows depicting scenes from the Bible and images of the Virgin Mary adorn the windows of the temple. At its entrance are engraved two phrases: "Do what he tells you" and "I am a servant of God."
Services are regularly held in the temple, which can be attended by everyone.

St Paul's Cathedral
This Catholic cathedral is the second largest. The largest cathedral in the world is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the World.

Facts and myths

The first stone was laid by Pope John Paul II.

The cathedral occupies a large area - 4.5 thousand square meters. It can accommodate over 3500 people. six billion West African francs (in dollars it is 13 million) - so much was spent on construction.

What to see

A huge tower in the shape of St. Paul stands in front of the building's facade. Inside, the cathedral is decorated with stained glass windows with beautiful paintings made in France.
An excellent view of the city opens from the site of the cathedral.

Cowar Mosque
The Cauar Mosque is located in the Republic of Côte d "Ivoire (in the northeast). It was built in the Sudanese style. Its minaret supports are made in a peculiar ribbed shape. On the western side of the Cauar is buried the spiritual leader - Imam Silla Bassand. The building of the mosque itself is made of bricks. Minarets of various sizes head the outer façade.

Basically, the Mosque consists of prayer rooms, as well as the main central space, which is complemented by a mihrab (it is located in the tower of the minaret). The prayer hall is shaped like a rectangle. Women pray in the western part, and men in the east. In addition, there is a separate entrance for women. It differs significantly from the entrance for men.

Kong Mosque
The Kong Mosque is an Islamic temple in the small town of Kong, which is located in the northeast of this state. By the way, this is the most preserved temple of all.

Facts and myths

This mosque has been shopping center... It exchanged various goods from the desert (textiles, as well as salt) for goods from the southern forests (slaves, nuts, and also gold). In addition, it was the center of the spread of Islam in Africa (in its western part).

Today, Kong has retained its function as a place where religious meetings and cults take place. Now she is recognized as the national dignity of the country.

Of course, every traveler goes to the west of Africa to see the sights of Cote d'Ivoire. Here you will find many interesting, mysterious and in its own way beautiful places that are really worth seeing. Being here, visit excursions that will tell you in detail about this state, and will show the best places that the republic is proud of.

The irresistible attractions of Cote d'Ivoire

It will be especially interesting for lovers of African culture who want to get to know the culture of this country better and compare it with other states of the continent. Almost all attractions Cote d "Yvoire are unique and unrepeatable. Only true natural beauty is found here, which cannot be found in any corner of the world. In addition, the republic will conquer with its folklore, as well as way of life, which has something to show.

Things to Do in Cote d'Ivoire

Unusual and quite original are entertainment Ivory Coast... It will be especially interesting for lovers of African culture. V Ivory Coast you will be greeted by vibrant festivals and rich celebrations dedicated to deities, as well as the Independence Day of the Republic. The most popular holiday on the territory is the Mask Festival, which takes place in February. Of course, many tourists are looking for a calm and rather primitive beach holiday here. Although it is recommended to practice and learn to surf here.

Places of interest Cote d'Ivoire

It is imperative to attract the attention of travelers interesting places Ivory Coast... These include museums that will reveal to you the history, culture and traditions of the country. You can also visit the Chardy Art Gallery, where his best works are presented. Do not forget to visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace, which is quite similar to the Cathedral of St. Peter, located in Rome. Attracts attention and the waterfall of Mont Tonqui, as well as beautiful landscapes mountain ranges in the area of ​​Man. While here you must visit national park Tai, where a collection of unique and rather rare plants is kept, which are included in the list of world heritage.

Excursions Cote d'Ivoire

Almost all excursions Cote d "Ivoire will guide you through the main and most beautiful places country. Here you can see how rich this country is, how much unusual things are stored on its territory. Many tourists try to visit it to see the true beauty of nature, which so quickly perishes at the hands of people.

Monuments Cote d'Ivoire

The most famous Monuments Cote d'Ivoire Are natural Attraction that the locals are trying to preserve for future generations. Of course, the largest and most famous is Kamoe National Park, home to a pristine rainforest. In the unguarded territory, all trees are quickly destroyed, but here the trunks, the height of which is more than 50 m, have been preserved. Tourists can also admire the endless vines and the rarest species of animals that live in these parts.

Museums Cote d'Ivoire

Tourists with their collection will be able to please and museums Cote d'Ivoire... One of the most important such buildings is the Museum of Civilization, which is located in the city of Abidjan. The building itself is not very large, but it has a rather interesting collection, which includes history of Cote d'Ivoire... The exposition is arranged a little chaotically, so it won't be very convenient to look at. Here travelers can see elements of folk art of tribes such as the Yakuba and Baule. There are also household items of local residents, ritual masks that they often use, ivory crafts and much more.

The capital is Yamoussoukro. The West African state of Côte d'Ivoire is located on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea. Its neighbors are Guinea and Liberia, northern Burkina Faso and Mali, and the border with Ghana to the east.

Population of Cote d 'Yvoire

There are about 60 ethnic groups in the country, the most numerous of which are Akan, Gur, Kru, Southern Mande. In total, 21 million 75 thousand people live here.

Nature

The 300 km east coast of the country is cut by numerous lagoons of various sizes and depths. Then the rainforest areas begin with more than 600 types of vegetation. The center of the country is a savannah, in the west there are hills and mountains. Forests and woodlands are inhabited by cheetahs, leopards, antelopes, chimpanzees, crocodiles, elephants, panthers, several species of snakes and lizards.

Climatic conditions Côte d "Yvoire

The northern part of the country is characterized by a humid subequatorial climate, while the southern part is characterized by an equatorial one. Average temperature +25 ... 30 ° C. In the coastal lowlands, precipitation falls up to 2300 mm per year, in the rest of the territory it is slightly less - up to 1800 mm.

Language

The official language in Côte d "Ivoire is French. The majority of the indigenous population speaks local dialects, the most common of which are: Baulé, Gyula, Bethe, Senufo, Yakuba.

Kitchen

French influence on national cuisine Côte d'Ivoire is expressed in the abundance of sauces, which are used to season not only meat dishes. Cereals and flat cakes made from bananas or local cereals are served with the sauce. The country successfully grows and exports cocoa beans, but due to the lack of processing plants for its chocolate in "There is no Yvoire, and the imported one is very expensive. The popular local palm wine is bangui.

Religion Cote d Yvoire

There are 39% of Muslims in the country, about 33% of Christians, the rest of the population adheres to local beliefs and cults.

Holidays

Independence Day is celebrated in Côte d'Ivoire on August 7. Holidays and festivals of local ethnic groups are very popular, such as the February Festival of Masks in the city of Mang or the March carnival in Bouaké. ...

Currency Cote d Ivoire

The official currency is the West African CFA Franc BCEAO (XOF). There are many round-the-clock exchange points in the country.

Time

Time in Cote d "Ivoire is 4 hours behind Moscow time.

The main resorts of Cote d "Ivoire

Beautiful beaches stretch in the area of ​​Sasandra, the active port. Three kilometers to the east is the beach de Bivac, where nature has created wonderful conditions for surfing. High waves suitable for this sport are also recorded on the country's border with Liberia in the Gran Belebi beach area.

sights

In the capital of Côte d "Ivoire, there is the highest stained glass cathedral on the planet, listed in the Guinness Book of Records. It is the Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace or Notre Dame de la Paix. It is modeled on the Basilica of St. Peter, whose stained glass windows are famous all over the world. Incredibly beautiful mosques in Cauar, Kong and Tingrell. Abidjan has a Catholic temple of Marial (Our Lady of Africa). The temple is built in the form of a spiral staircase symbolizing the hospitality of heaven. Its unusual architecture looks stunning against the backdrop of African landscapes.

The main natural attraction of Côte d'Ivoire is the Kamoe National Park, the largest in West Africa and included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The reserve is home to all three species of crocodiles of the black continent: the blunt-nosed, African narrow-necked (gavial) and the Nile. the Kamoe River, is perfectly visible, which allows you to observe rare animals in their usual, natural habitat.The park is open only during the dry season.Come here from October to April and see firsthand the life of the jungle.

If you are interested in African history, art or music, Kot-d Ivoire is the place to get the most out of these aspects of culture. Art Kot-d Ivoire is considered one of the best in West Africa and each ethnic group is very distinctive. The Baul and Yakuba peoples are widely known for their original wooden sculptures - usually the traditional local wooden mask is a very accurate depiction of a human face, slightly exaggerated to better convey the character. Used in various ceremonies, the baulé face masks are extremely realistic and convey the characteristics of the appearance or hairstyle of the person who served as their prototype. Senufo masks, on the contrary, are highly stylized: the most famous type is a fire - a helmet mask, which is a compilation of the appearance of an antelope, warthog and hyena - the most respected animals of the local animist cult.

Another characteristic product of local artisans is the large human-shaped rice-making spoon that serves as a great local souvenir.

The city of Yamoussoukro became the capital in 1983, but is still the center of the country more in name. The city's main attraction is the Notre-Dame de la Pax Church, built in the 1960s, which is currently the tallest church in the entire Christian world, modeled after St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican. The 36 huge stained-glass windows that adorn its main hall are also unique.

Abidjan was also provincial town until 1951, when the French completed the Vridi Canal, connecting the Abidjan lagoon to the ocean. This immediately gave the city an excellent harbor, and since then the population has grown to nearly 3 million, and the city itself has expanded to occupy the four peninsulas around the lagoon. Known as the Paris of West Africa, Abidjan has many attractions: there is a large traditional handicraft market, many picturesque parks (Le Plateau is especially beautiful). The central, commercial part of the city and Cocody - a chic residential section, are interesting for their architecture - here you can find the Imperial Hotel Ivory, considered the most famous hotel in West Africa and the main attraction of the city. It has everything you can imagine - there is a swimming pool, an ice rink with artificial ice, a bowling alley, a cinema, a casino and the city's main art store. Built by the Italians and consecrated by the Pope in 1985 is located next to the hotel. Cathedral Saint-Paul, able to compete in beauty and grace with many temples in the world.

Connected to Le Plateau by two bridges, the Treischeville area has the largest of the city's four markets, and most of the city's nightlife is concentrated here. The north-western outskirts of the city - Parc du Banco, is a real rainforest, smoothly merging with city buildings, which guarantees pleasant walks. It is the coolest place on the country's southern coast and is therefore very popular with joggers.

The country's rainforests are shrinking rapidly (one of the highest in the world), with the only remaining virgin forest in national parks Tan and Marahuz, occupying 3600 square kilometers in the southwestern part of the country. There are still preserved trees 50 meters in height, with massive trunks and huge support roots. Walking through the equatorial primordial forest is a unique experience: tall trees intertwined with vines, swift streams and relict wildlife come together to create a peaceful and enchanting landscape that still takes a lot of effort to travel through. The parks are in a very rainy and humid area, so best time to visit - during the dry period from December to February. To visit the parks, you must obtain permission from the Ministry of Forest in Abidjan.

Comoe National Park, the largest in West Africa, is located 570 kilometers northeast of Abidjan. Here, next to the river of the same name, one of the most popular animal trails passes, where you can trace in the natural environment how large herds of animals in the dry season go to the river in search of water, where there is a great opportunity to observe the habits of the most diverse representatives of the local fauna.

The Man city area in the central part of the country is a territory of lush green hills and is known far beyond the country for its La Cascade waterfall, located in a bamboo forest 5 kilometers west of the city, as well as the steep, tooth-shaped Mont Tonqui mountain and mountain La Dent de Man (Human Tooth), which according to local tradition is considered the guardian angel of this region of the country. Other attractions in the area are picturesque villages: Biankuma, Goususso, Sipitu and Danane.

Korhogo has been the capital of the Senufo people since the 13th century; the heart of this city is a bustling market. The Senufos are widely known for their wood carvings and are skilled blacksmiths and potters. Most of the woodcarvers live and work in a small area called the Sculptor Quartier.

Senufos are divided by a complex system of relationships between secret communities, closer to religious unions: Poro - a cult for boys and sakrabundi - a cult for girls, it is within their framework that they prepare for adulthood. The communities preserve the folklore of the people, teach tribal customs, and instill self-control through rigorous testing. Childhood education is divided into three seven-year periods, ending with an initiation ceremony. Each community has a sacred forest where teaching is conducted (the uninitiated are never allowed to observe trials). Some ritual ceremonies take place directly in the village and are allowed to be visited by tourists. They include many rituals, such as the Dance of the Leopard People, performed when the boys return from a training session in the forest, and much more.

There are beautiful beaches in the Sassandra port area. But what makes the area particularly attractive is that there are also numerous ethnic fishing villages of the Fanti people, with an active port and a picturesque river. It is highly recommended to try bangui, a palm wine produced only here. Sasandra was previously an important trading port, but when a modern maritime terminal was built in nearby San Pedro, its role declined and the entire area is now a great tourist area.

Located 3 kilometers to the east, Plage de Biwac is one of the best places for surfing. Big waves are also recorded on the adjacent Poli beach, as well as in the Gran Belebi coastal area near the Liberian border.