Benin Abomey

Former capital of the Dahomey Kingdom in Benin, with royal palaces & Historical Museum of Abomey.

Abomey is a historic city located in southern Benin, approximately 100 kilometers north of Cotonou. It is renowned for its rich history and its status as the capital of the powerful Dahomey Kingdom, which existed from the 17th to the 19th century.

When visiting Abomey, it's advisable to hire a local guide who can provide in-depth knowledge about the historical sites, cultural practices, and facilitate meaningful interactions with the community. Respect local customs and traditions, and dress modestly when visiting sacred sites or participating in cultural activities.

Here's some information about Abomey:

1. Benin Royal Palaces of Abomey

Royal Palaces of Abomey: The Royal Palaces of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , are the main attraction in Abomey. These palaces served as the residences of the kings and queens of the Dahomey Kingdom. Today, the palaces are museums that showcase artifacts, royal regalia, and historical displays related to the kingdom's history and culture.

2. Benin Historical Museum of Abomey

Historical Museum of Abomey: Located within the Royal Palaces complex, the Historical Museum of Abomey offers a comprehensive overview of the Dahomey Kingdom. The museum displays a collection of royal treasures, ancestral artifacts, and exhibits that delve into the kingdom's customs, ceremonies, and historical events.

3. Benin Temple of Pythons

Temple of Pythons: In Abomey, you can visit the Temple of Pythons, a place of veneration for the Voodoo religion. The temple is home to numerous pythons that are considered sacred and are believed to bring protection and good fortune. Visitors can witness ceremonies and interact with the pythons under the guidance of priests.

4. Benin Voodoo Practices

Voodoo Practices: Abomey is known for its strong connection to Voodoo, which is an integral part of the local culture. While in Abomey, you may have the opportunity to observe or participate in Voodoo rituals, ceremonies, and traditional practices. It is essential to approach these practices with respect and seek guidance from knowledgeable locals.

5. Benin Abomey Crafts and Art

Crafts and Art: Abomey is a hub of traditional craftsmanship and artistry. Local artisans create intricate wood carvings, sculptures, pottery, and textiles that reflect the cultural heritage of the region. You can explore craft markets and workshops to observe or purchase these unique handcrafted items.

6. Benin Abomey Cultural Heritage

Cultural Heritage: Abomey offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Benin. The city has preserved its historical traditions, and you can experience local customs, traditional dances, music, and festivals during your visit.

7. Musee Historique d'Abomey

Musee Historique d'Abomey: The Musee Historique d'Abomey is another museum in Abomey that houses artifacts and historical displays related to the Dahomey Kingdom. It provides additional insights into the history and cultural significance of the region.

Place GOHO

Place GOHO: Open 24 hours, Monday-Sunday Most important tourist site in the country, representing the illustrious King BÉHANZIN, it has a lot of cultural meaning for the country. Well maintained, it is an excellent place to relax with the park located on site.. It's a calm place with a lot of trees where you can breathe fresh and pure air. There are public benches, car and motorcycles access as well. It's a fantastic place with the outstanding statue of the greatest king of all-time Behanzin. And Large public square accessible to all where you can take in the wind on the public benches, take pictures with the royal prerogative etc.

Maître Adra

Maître Adra: Opens 09:00 - 17:00, Monday-Sunday The Royal Palaces of Abomey are 12 palaces spread over an area of 40 hectares at the heart of the Abomey town in Benin, formerly the capital of the West African Kingdom of Dahomey. The Kingdom was founded in 1625 by the Fon people who developed it into a powerful military and commercial empire, which dominated trade with European slave traders on the Slave Coast until the late 19th century, to whom they sold their prisoners of war. At its peak the palaces could accommodate for up to 8000 people. The King's palace included a two-story building known as the "cowrie house" or akuehue. Under the twelve kings who succeeded from 1625 to 1900, the kingdom established itself as one of the most powerful of the western coast of Africa. You can't claim to know the history of Benin without this place. It was the capital of Dahomey now Benin. It was the most powerful kingdom and defeat everyone around him. Here have what we call Amazone, it is women who where soldiers and can go defeat the enemy army. They was powerful. This place is wonderful too because of the colonialism history. The kings specially Behanzin fight against colonialism. There is amazing history about this place,

Benin Electronic Visa

An electronic visa for Benin may be issued for either a single entry or multiple entries to the Republic, and permit a stay of either 30 or 90 days depending on the individual needs of the traveler. It permits a stay in the West African country for either tourism, transit, or business purposes. Get Benin Travel Visa