Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Côte d'Ivoire
CapitalYamoussoukro
Population31.7 million
Area322,463 km² (124,504 sq mi)
LanguagesFrench
CurrencyWest African CFA franc (Fr)
TimezoneUTC
RegionAfrica / Western Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Notable Achievements
| Category | Achievement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Science | Basilique de Notre Dame de la Paix de Yamoussoukro | The largest Christian church in the world, built using innovative engineering techniques |
| Sports | Ivorian Football Team | Won the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, defeating Ghana in the final |
| Arts | Ivorian Wood Carvings | Traditional wood carvings are a significant part of Ivorian culture, with intricate designs and patterns |
| Development | Economic Growth | Ivory Coast has experienced significant economic growth, with a GDP growth rate of 8.5% in 2019 |
| Innovation | Abidjan Startup Scene | Abidjan has a thriving startup scene, with numerous incubators and accelerators supporting entrepreneurship |
| Global Contributions | UN Peacekeeping Missions | Ivory Coast has contributed troops to several UN peacekeeping missions, including in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Liberia |
| Environment | Tai National Park | A protected area of over 3,500 square kilometers, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna |
Cultural Treasures
- The Basilique de Notre Dame de la Paix de Yamoussoukro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest churches in the world.
- The Festival des Masques is a traditional festival where masks are worn to represent ancestral spirits and to communicate with the dead.
- The Djembe is a traditional drum that originated in Ivory Coast and is an important part of Ivorian music and culture.
- The Baule people are known for their skilled goldwork and intricate wood carvings.
- The Grand Mosquée du Plateau is a beautiful mosque located in the heart of Abidjan, showcasing Islamic architecture and design.
People & Global Impact
- Djedje Mady is a renowned Ivorian musician who has won numerous awards for his music, including the prestigious Kora Award.
- Youssouf Bakayoko is a former Ivorian football player who played for several European clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain and Olympique de Marseille.
- The Ivorian diaspora has made significant contributions to the global economy, with many Ivorians working in fields such as finance, medicine, and technology.
- Aicha Koné is a prominent Ivorian businesswoman who has founded several companies, including a successful textile manufacturing firm.
What Visitors Love
- The warm hospitality of the Ivorian people, who are known for their welcoming nature and friendly smiles.
- The delicious cuisine, which includes popular dishes such as fufu and groundnut stew.
- The beautiful beaches along the Atlantic coast, particularly in the town of Assinie.
- The vibrant markets, such as the Grand Marché in Abidjan, where visitors can find a wide range of goods, including traditional clothing and handicrafts.
- The stunning scenery, including the Man Mountains and the Sassandra River.
- The exciting nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from, particularly in the city of Abidjan.
Hidden Gems
- The Village de Korhogo is a small village located in the north of the country, known for its traditional architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
- The Parc National de la Comoé is a protected area that is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and monkeys.
- The Côte d'Ivoire International Film Festival is a annual film festival that showcases the best of Ivorian and African cinema.
- The Abidjan International Book Fair is a major literary event that brings together authors, publishers, and book lovers from across the continent.