Musée National du Costume de Grand-Bassam, National Costume Museum in Grand-Bassam, Ivory Coast
The Musée National du Costume de Grand-Bassam displays traditional garments and textiles from the ethnic groups of Ivory Coast in a spacious building next to the former governor's palace. The collection includes a wide range of costumes, accessories, and fabrics from different regions of the country.
The institution was founded in 1981 during a period when the country was systematically documenting and preserving its cultural heritage. It emerged at a time when traditional arts and craftsmanship were being reassessed and valued.
The garments and accessories on display reflect the skills and artistic vision of different Ivorian communities. You can see how textiles and decorative elements remain part of everyday dress and ceremonial occasions today.
The museum is easily accessible from downtown and sits in a well-maintained building in the old town, which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your visit pairs well with a walk through the historic streets and colonial architecture of the area.
Many visitors overlook that the museum sits in a building with its own historical weight, positioned next to the former seat of French colonial administration. This proximity to a symbol of the colonial era adds a distinct layer of meaning to understanding Ivorian history.
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