Nov
13
Filed Under (Things to do in Bamako) by Rob on 13-11-2010

Visit the Cathedral

Yes, Bamako has a Catholic cathedral, right in the middle of town. Now, if you’re thinking Durham, York or Cantebury, you’ll be sorely disappointed, but it’s still quite interesting to look at, in a parish-churchy kind of way. Right on the edge of the market, the cathedral is also a handy landmark for finding your way through the crowds. The interior is calm, clean and cool; the exact opposite to the market itself.

I’ve been to a couple of services at the cathedral. Very pleasant and the place is often packed! They also have a decent choir! Here are their service times (which may have changed by the time you read this):

Now, one time a friend and I managed to talk our way into being allowed up the tower, but I think this is the exception (no harm in trying, though). Here’s what the view was like from up there:

If you do get to go up, be aware that the staircases and floors are not necessarily up to Western health and safety standards!! However, they might let you up to the balcony, which is not as high, but lets you have a nice view of the interior of the building:

Here’s the cathedral from above, once again thanks to Google Maps. If you’re crossing the Old Bridge coming towards town, you can actually see the cathedral tower straight ahead, although getting there by car is a bit more tricky due to one way streets!


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Comments:
2 Comments posted on "Things to do in Bamako no.13"
anne on November 17th, 2010 at 5:24 pm #

that building and interior wouldnt look out of place in england. are there a lot of catholics in bamako? by the way, the tea on the last post, looked unlike any ive seen. is it to your liking?
hope all is well with you, anne


Rob on November 19th, 2010 at 4:03 pm #

Not many catholics really, but some.
The tea is okay, but I prefer the 2nd and 3rd cups!