What is the Largest Cathedral in the World?

The largest cathedral in the world is the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast. This incredible structure was completed in 1989 and is the largest Christian church in the world. It covers 30,000 square metres and its central dome is 158 metres high, making it one of the most impressive structures in the world.

History of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace was commissioned by then-President of the Ivory Coast, Félix Houphouët-Boigny. The President wanted to honour a promise he made to the Pope to build a monument to the Virgin Mary. He began the project in 1985 and it was completed in 1989 with a cost of $300 million. The basilica was designed by Pierre Fakhoury, an architect from Lebanon, and built by the Italian firm Impregilo. It was consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1990.

Design of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace

The basilica is modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, with its massive dome, columns and arches. The basilica is made from marble, granite and gold, and features a large central dome and four smaller domes. It is surrounded by vast gardens, fountains and sculptures, making it a popular tourist attraction. The interior of the basilica is equally impressive, with an ornate altar, marble flooring and intricate mosaics.

Features of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is an impressive structure that stands out among other cathedrals. Its size and grandeur are unmatched, and its intricate design and beautiful interior make it a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims alike. The basilica is home to a large library and museum, housing artifacts and documents from the early days of Christianity. The basilica also offers guided tours and an interactive multimedia experience.

Significance of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is an important symbol for the people of Ivory Coast. The basilica serves as a reminder of the country’s strong religious beliefs and its commitment to peace and justice. It is also a reminder of the faith and dedication of Félix Houphouët-Boigny, who devoted his life to bettering the lives of his people. The basilica stands as a testament to the power of faith and the importance of preserving religious traditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the largest cathedral in the world?

The largest cathedral in the world is the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast.

Q2. When was the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace built?

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace was completed in 1989.

Q3. Who designed the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace?

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace was designed by Pierre Fakhoury, an architect from Lebanon.

Q4. How much did the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace cost?

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace cost $300 million to build.

Q5. What is the interior of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace like?

The interior of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is ornate, with an altar, marble flooring and intricate mosaics.

Q6. What is the significance of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace?

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is an important symbol for the people of Ivory Coast, serving as a reminder of the country’s strong religious beliefs and its commitment to peace and justice.

Q7. Does the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace offer guided tours?

Yes, the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace offers guided tours and an interactive multimedia experience.

Q8. What materials were used to build the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace?

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace was constructed using marble, granite and gold.

Q9. How high is the central dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace?

The central dome of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is 158 metres high.

Q10. Who consecrated the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace?

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace was consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1990.

Q11. How big is the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace?

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace covers 30,000 square metres.

Q12. What is the purpose of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace?

The purpose of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is to honour a promise made by former President Félix Houphouët-Boigny to the Pope to build a monument to the Virgin Mary.

Q13. Does the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace have a museum?

Yes, the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace has a large library and museum, housing artifacts and documents from the early days of Christianity.

Q14. Is the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace a popular tourist destination?

Yes, the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is a popular tourist attraction due to its impressive size and grandeur, and its intricate design and beautiful interior.

Q15. How was the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace built?

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace was built by the Italian firm Impregilo.

Q16. What other features does the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace have?

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace is surrounded by vast gardens, fountains and sculptures. It also offers guided tours and an interactive multimedia experience.

Q17. Who commissioned the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace?

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace was commissioned by then-President of the Ivory Coast, Félix Houphouët-Boigny.

Q18. What is the architecture of the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace like?

The basilica is modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, with its massive dome, columns and arches.

Q19. How long did it take to build the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace?

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace took four years to build, from 1985 to 1989.

Q20. What other religious monuments are located in Yamoussoukro?

In addition to the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, Yamoussoukro is home to several other religious monuments, including the Notre Dame de la Paix, a Catholic cathedral built in the 19th century.