Abidjan is the largest city and former capital of Côte d'Ivoire (de jure capital is Yamoussoukro). The city is situated at the homeland of Ebrie people. The birth and growth of Abidjan are closely related to the colonial history of Côte d'Ivoire. Grand-Bassam was the first capital of the new colony, then Bingerville became a capital from 1900 to 1934. After it was moved once again, this time to Abidjan, which was chosen because the colonial authorities needed a location that was economically viable. As Abidjan is inhabited by people from a wide array of different ethnicities, the French language is used as the language of communication in the metropolitan area.
The climate of Abidjan is affected by ocean currents, wind patterns, latitudes, and landforms, because of its coastal location next to the Atlantic Ocean. The Guinea Current is a warm current that runs off the coast and keeps the temperature warm. Abidjan is also affected by warm winds called the Northeasterly Trade Winds. Because of all these factors Abidjan has a very warm and stable climate. The water off the coast is warm and so are the winds.
Abidjan is modern port that is centered on Little Bassam Island, which is linked with the rest of the city by two bridges; the Vridi Canal passing through the lagoon bar provides access to the Atlantic Ocean. Pineapples, cacao, coffee, timber, manganese and plantains are the chief items shipped from the port. Abidjan's major industries are automotive assembly, chemicals, sawmilling, food processing, manufacture of textiles, beverages and soap.
The Port Bouet Airport is located approximately 16 km from downtown Abidjan. Trains on the line to Ouagadougou run from several stations in the city, the most important being in Treichville. Ferries link Treichville, Abobo-Doume and the Plateau. Taxis and buses are available at the airport, but are considered unsafe. The taxis are metered and the fares are relatively low. Rental cars are also available, however the fees can be quite expensive. Vehicle accidents occur frequently, especially at night when roads are poorly lit.
The Museum of Cote D'Ivoire and the National Library represent Abidjan's history and culture, with their excellent collection of African art. Other city sights include the Palais de la Presidence and modernistic St. Paul's Cathedral. Comoé National Park in the north-east of the city is an area of unique plant diversity in a forest habitat that is isolated and something of a climatic oddity. It is one of the largest protected areas in West Africa. North of the city is Banco National Park, a magnificent tropical rainforest.
African music is another important attraction in this Metropolis. Music and beat are often heard on the streets and the ladies can be heard singing in the street markets.
The Fête du Dipri, held every year in April, is an eccentric event to exorcise the village of evil spells. The event, which starts at midnight when naked women and children carry out nocturnal rites, continues until late afternoon the next day.
