Yamoussoukro

Imagine a big, beautiful country in Africa called Ivory Coast. Yamoussoukro is its capital city! It's not on the ocean, but a bit inland, nestled among rolling green hills and flat plains.

Think of it like being in the middle of a giant, colorful playground. It's a place where important decisions are made for the whole country. It's a bit farther from the biggest ocean city, Abidjan, than driving from your house to your grandparent's house, but still an important connection!

Yamoussoukro became the capital city in 1983, which is not too long ago! Before that, another city called Abidjan was the main capital. Even though Yamoussoukro is the official capital, Abidjan still has some important jobs. The whole area around Yamoussoukro is quite large, bigger than many small towns put together. It's made up of many little villages and towns, all connected to the main city.

One of the most amazing things about Yamoussoukro is its giant church, the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace. It's HUGE! It's even bigger than the famous St.

Peter's Basilica in Rome, Italy. It has a giant dome that reaches way up into the sky. The city is also known for its beautiful, wide streets, which are much wider than the streets in your neighborhood.

It's a city designed with grand ideas in mind!

About 212,670 people call Yamoussoukro home, which is like having a big school filled with kids and teachers! People in Yamoussoukro work in different jobs to help the city run. They also have their own traditions and ways of life. The city is a place where leaders meet to plan for the future of Ivory Coast, making sure everyone has what they need. It's a busy and important place!