Culture

The diversity of culture in Côte d’Ivoire is truly remarkable, with over 60 indigenous ethnic groups, each with their own unique traditions. Different regions of the country have distinct music, art, festivals, and languages. The Ivoirian cuisine is influenced by neighboring West African countries, and most dishes include tubers and grains. Food is frequently served with attiéké, or grated cassava, a popular side dish. Maquis is a type of braised chicken or fish that is smothered in tomatoes and onions.

Music is also an important part of life in the Ivory Coast, and while each ethnic group has its own interpretation of traditions, some rhythms and melodies are universal. Music is used in a variety of occasions, including weddings and funerals. To express various emotions, various instruments such as the talking drum, kpalogo, djembe, shekere, cleavers, and akombe are used. These are made by hand from indigenous materials such as animal skins, gourds, and horns.

The most iconic Ivoirian art is the mask. The intricacy and variety of designs are truly impressive as these cultural symbols serve many purposes. They represent lesser deities, higher spirits and even the souls of the deceased. Ivoirians also produce ceremonial masks, each representing an entity. Wood carvings, fabrics and pottery are also popular art forms.