Notre-Dame-de-Miséricorde Cathedral

Located near Cotonou's historic bridge, Notre-Dame-de-Miséricorde Cathedral is instantly recognizable by its vivid candy-striped façade of alternating white and crimson ceramic tiles, making it one of the city's most distinct landmarks. Erected at the close of the 19th century by African Mission fathers and consecrated in 1901, it has served as the spiritual mother church of Cotonou through a century of national history. Inside, high timber ceilings and luminous arches resonate with vibrant Sunday choral liturgies sung in French and indigenous languages (Fon, Mina, Yoruba). The cathedral has hosted pastoral visits from both Pope John Paul II (1993) and Pope Benedict XVI (2011). Its central location on the lagoon edge makes it an essential cultural stop for architecture and heritage enthusiasts.