10 Things to Do in Cotonou Cathedral of St. Stephen (Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Cotonou)
Cotonou, the largest city in Benin, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis with plenty of attractions for visitors. One of the most popular sights in Cotonou is the Cathedral of St. Stephen (Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Cotonou). This impressive structure is a must-see for visitors to the city and offers plenty of activities and things to do. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Cotonou Cathedral of St. Stephen.
1. Explore the Interior of the Cathedral
The interior of the Cathedral of St. Stephen is quite breathtaking. It is filled with beautiful stained glass windows, intricate carvings, and impressive frescoes. You can take your time to explore the interior of the cathedral and admire the craftsmanship of the artisans who built it.
2. Attend a Service
The Cathedral of St. Stephen is an active Catholic church and holds regular services. Attending a service is a great way to experience the culture of the city and to learn more about the Catholic faith.
3. Take a Tour
The Cathedral of St. Stephen offers guided tours of the building and its grounds. The tours are usually conducted in English and provide an opportunity to learn more about the history and architecture of the cathedral.
4. Visit the Crypt
The crypt of the Cathedral of St. Stephen is a fascinating place to explore. It contains the remains of the cathedral's founder, Cardinal Pierre-Joseph de la Croix, as well as other important religious figures.
5. Admire the Frescoes
The frescoes that adorn the walls of the Cathedral of St. Stephen are some of the most impressive works of art in the city. They depict scenes from the Bible and other religious stories and are sure to captivate your imagination.
6. Climb the Bell Tower
The bell tower of the Cathedral of St. Stephen offers spectacular views of the city. Climbing the tower is a great way to get a bird's-eye view of Cotonou and to admire the beauty of the city.
7. Attend a Concert
The Cathedral of St. Stephen is a popular venue for concerts and other musical performances. Attending a concert in the cathedral is an unforgettable experience and a great way to enjoy the culture of Cotonou.
8. Explore the Grounds
The grounds of the Cathedral of St. Stephen are filled with lush gardens and tranquil pathways. Exploring the grounds is a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the cathedral.
9. Enjoy a Picnic
The grounds of the Cathedral of St. Stephen are the perfect place for a picnic. Bring a blanket and some snacks and enjoy a leisurely lunch in the shadow of the cathedral.
10. Shop in the Souvenir Shop
The souvenir shop at the Cathedral of St. Stephen is the perfect place to pick up a souvenir of your visit. The shop sells a variety of religious items, including books, jewelry, and other religious artifacts.
Visiting the Cathedral of St. Stephen in Cotonou is an unforgettable experience. Whether you're looking for a place to worship, explore, or just relax, the cathedral has something to offer everyone. Be sure to take the time to explore this incredible structure and all the things it has to offer.