Ten Things to Do in Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph (Cathédrale Saint-Joseph de Cotonou)
Cotonou, Benin is a vibrant and bustling city full of life and culture. The city is home to many historical sites, including the Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph. This beautiful cathedral is a must-see for anyone visiting Cotonou. Here are ten things to do at the Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph.
1. Explore the Cathedral’s History: The Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph was built in 1887 by French colonists and is the oldest Christian church in Benin. The cathedral was designed in a neo-Gothic style and is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture.
2. Attend a Service: The Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph is a place of worship for the Catholic Church. Visitors can attend a service to experience the religious atmosphere of the cathedral.
3. Visit the Crypt: The crypt of the Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph is home to the tomb of the first Bishop of Cotonou, Jean Baptiste de la Croix. The crypt also contains the remains of several other bishops and priests.
4. Take a Guided Tour: Guided tours of the Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph are available from the cathedral office. The tour covers the history of the cathedral, its architecture, and the crypt.
5. Climb the Bell Tower: The bell tower of the Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph offers spectacular views of the city and is a popular spot for visitors.
6. Visit the Chapel of the Sacred Heart: The Chapel of the Sacred Heart is located within the Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph and is home to several beautiful works of art.
7. Attend a Concert: The Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph hosts regular concerts and performances. Visitors can enjoy a variety of musical styles, including classical, jazz, and folk music.
8. Shop at the Cathedral Gift Shop: The gift shop at the Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph sells a variety of souvenirs and religious items.
9. Take a Walk Around the Cathedral Grounds: The grounds of the Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph are a peaceful place to take a stroll and admire the architecture.
10. Enjoy a Meal at the Cathedral Restaurant: The restaurant at the Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph serves a variety of delicious Beninese dishes.
The Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture and a must-see for anyone visiting Cotonou. Whether you’re looking to explore the history of the cathedral, attend a service, or just take a stroll around the grounds, there’s something for everyone at the Cotonou Cathedral of St. Joseph.