10 things to do in Cotonou Cathedral of St. John the Baptist (Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Cotonou) Cotonou Benin
Cotonou, the largest city in Benin, is a vibrant and lively destination for tourists. One of the most popular attractions in the city is the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, or Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Cotonou. Built in the late 19th century, this stunning cathedral is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Cotonou. Here are ten things to do at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Cotonou.
1. Tour the Cathedral: The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is a stunning example of neo-Gothic architecture. Built in 1892, the cathedral is made of red brick and features a tall bell tower and a large central nave. Visitors can take guided tours of the cathedral, which will provide insight into the history and architecture of the building.
2. Attend a Service: The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is an active place of worship. Visitors can attend services in the cathedral, which are held in French and Fon, the primary language of Benin.
3. Explore the Grounds: The grounds of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist are just as stunning as the building itself. The grounds feature lush gardens, a pond, and a grotto dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
4. Visit the Crypt: The crypt of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is home to the tombs of several important figures in Benin’s history. Visitors can explore the crypt and learn about the history of the country.
5. Attend the Easter Procession: Every Easter, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist hosts a large procession. The procession is led by the Archbishop of Cotonou and features music, dancing, and a re-enactment of the Passion of Christ.
6. Take a Photo: The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is a stunning sight, and visitors can take photos of the building from the grounds.
7. Visit the Museum: The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist also houses a museum. The museum features artifacts from the history of the cathedral, as well as works of art from local artists.
8. Enjoy the View: From the grounds of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city of Cotonou.
9. Explore the Surrounding Area: The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is located in the heart of Cotonou, and visitors can explore the surrounding area. Nearby attractions include the Presidential Palace, the National Museum, and the National Library.
10. Shop: The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is located in the bustling downtown area of Cotonou. Visitors can explore the nearby shops and markets, where they can find souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Visiting the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Cotonou is a must-do for anyone visiting the city. From exploring the stunning architecture of the building to enjoying the views of the city, there are plenty of things to do at the cathedral.