Introduction
Yamoussoukro is the capital city of Ivory Coast and an autonomous district. As of the 2014 census, Yamoussoukro is the fifth most populous city in the Ivory Coast, with a population of 212,670. Located 240 kilometers (150 mi) north-west of Abidjan, the district of Yamoussoukro covers 2,075 square kilometers (801 sq mi) among rolling hills and plains. Yamoussoukro became the legal capital of Ivory Coast in 1983, although the former capital Abidjan retains several political functions. Prior to 2011, what is now the district of Yamoussoukro was part of Lacs Region. The district was created in 2011 and is split into the departments of Attiégouakro and Yamoussoukro. In total, the district contains 169 settlements. Yamoussoukro is a sub-prefecture in Yamoussoukro Department and is also a commune: since 2012, the city of Yamoussoukro has been the sole commune in the autonomous district of Yamoussoukro.
History & Origins
Stone tools found in the country from hundreds of thousands of years ago show that the area around Yamoussoukro has been occupied since ancient times. Due to the desertification of the Sahara, many moved south to avoid the harsh conditions.
Geography & Climate
Yamoussoukro features a tropical wet and dry climate (Aw) under the Köppen-Geiger climate classification system. The city features a lengthy wet season covering the months of March through October, and a shorter dry season that covers the remaining four months. Like many other cities in West Africa, Yamoussoukro is affected by the harmattan, which serves as a primary source of the city's dry season. Despite the lengthy wet season, Yamoussoukro does not see the level of rainfall experienced in Abidjan. Yamoussoukro on average sees roughly 1,130 millimetres (44 in) of precipitation annually.
Demographics & Culture
Yamoussoukro has a population of approximately 340,000+, making it a modest-sized capital in West Africa. The city is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions drawn from across Ivory Coast.
Economy & Government
Landmarks & Attractions
Yamoussoukro features notable landmarks including government buildings, historical monuments, museums, and public spaces that reflect its role as Ivory Coast's capital city.
Key Facts
- Yamoussoukro is the capital of Ivory Coast
- Population: approximately 340,000+
- Elevation: 214 meters (702 feet) above sea level
- Area: 2,075 km²
- Located in the West Africa region
- Capital city of Ivory Coast
Fun Facts
- Yamoussoukro serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of Ivory Coast
- Yamoussoukro is an important city in the West Africa region
Quick Facts About Yamoussoukro
- Country: Ivory Coast
- Continent: Africa (West Africa)
- Country population: approximately 33.5 million
- Capital city status: Yamoussoukro is the capital of Ivory Coast, the seat of national government, and the location of foreign embassies, parliament, and the head of state's official residence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capital of Ivory Coast?
The capital of Ivory Coast is Yamoussoukro. Yamoussoukro is the seat of national government, hosts most foreign embassies and consulates, and is typically where the head of state and parliament are located.
What continent is Yamoussoukro in?
Yamoussoukro, the capital of Ivory Coast, is located in Africa, in the West Africa region. As Ivory Coast's capital, Yamoussoukro serves as the country's primary connection to the broader African political, economic, and cultural sphere.
Why is Yamoussoukro the capital of Ivory Coast?
Yamoussoukro was chosen as the capital of Ivory Coast for reasons that typically combine geography, history, and politics. Capital city selections often reflect a desire for centrality (being accessible from across the country), historical importance (being a longstanding seat of government or culture), or neutrality (being acceptable to multiple regions or ethnic groups within the country). The specific reasons for Yamoussoukro's designation are detailed in the city's history above.
What is Yamoussoukro known for?
As the capital of Ivory Coast, Yamoussoukro is best known for housing the country's central government institutions — parliament, presidential or royal residences, supreme court, and key ministries. It is also typically a major cultural and economic center within Ivory Coast, hosting national museums, embassies, and signature monuments. The introduction and history sections above provide detailed coverage of the city's specific notable institutions and landmarks.
Related Pages
- Ivory Coast Country Guide — full geography, climate, economy, and culture overview
- Flag of Ivory Coast — meaning, history, and design of Ivory Coast's national flag
