Description:
Ouidah, Benin. Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. Interior view towards the chancel. The central nave, 58 metres long and 14 metres wide, is covered by a coffered vault carried on a metal frame rising to 17.5 metres. The lateral bays open onto stained glass windows whose filtered light bathes the space in subdued clarity. The quadrangular apse houses the high altar, surmounted by a monumental cross and the statue of the Virgin known as the Madonna of Ouidah. Consecrated in 1909 and elevated to the rank of minor basilica in 1989, the building exemplifies the Neo-Gothic European style transposed to West Africa.