Yamoussoukro

Yamoussoukro! The largest city in the Ivory Coast, and also the capital. But here’s the interesting part: Yamoussoukro is not the original capital of the Ivory Coast. That distinction belongs to Abidjan, which was the capital until 1983.

So, why did the capital move to Yamoussoukro? Well, it’s because of the country’s president at the time, Félix Houphouët-Boigny. He was a wealthy and influential leader who wanted to build a new city to serve as the capital. He chose Yamoussoukro, his hometown, and invested heavily in its development.

Today, Yamoussoukro is a sprawling city with a mix of modern and traditional architecture. It’s home to many government buildings, universities, and cultural institutions. But it’s also known for its grandeur and opulence, thanks to Houphouët-Boigny’s vision and investments.

Some interesting facts about Yamoussoukro:

• It’s the largest city in the Ivory Coast, with a population of over 350,000 people.
• The city has many impressive buildings, including the National Assembly, the Supreme Court, and several universities.
• The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is one of the largest churches in the world, and was built by Houphouët-Boigny as a symbol of peace and unity.
• Yamoussoukro is also home to many museums and cultural institutions, including the National Museum of Ivory Coast and the Museum of African Civilization.

Overall, Yamoussoukro is an interesting and unique city that reflects the country’s rich history and culture.