Royal Palaces of Abomey
Location: Abomey, Benin
Year of Inscription: 1985
Criteria: (iii) bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared; (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates significant stages in human history;
Overview: The Royal Palaces of Abomey are a series of impressive mud-brick structures that served as the residence of the kings of the Kingdom of Dahomey, a powerful West African state that flourished from the 17th to the 19th centuries. The palaces provide an exceptional testimony to the culture and civilization of the Fon people of Benin.
Prominent Features: The Royal Palaces of Abomey are a series of interconnected buildings that are richly decorated with murals, bas-reliefs, and sculptures. The complex includes a variety of structures, including the King's Palace, the Grand Mosque, and the Palace of the Amazons. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palaces to learn about their history and significance.
History: The Kingdom of Dahomey was a powerful West African state that controlled much of present-day Benin from the 17th to the 19th centuries. The Royal Palaces of Abomey served as the residence of the kings of Dahomey, who used them to exert their authority over the surrounding region. The palaces also served as the site of important religious and cultural ceremonies.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Royal Palaces of Abomey are a great place for families to learn about the history and culture of Benin. Guided tours of the palaces are available, and visitors can also explore the nearby Abomey Historical Museum, which features exhibits on the history of Dahomey and the slave trade.
Fun Fact: The Royal Palaces of Abomey were constructed without the use of mortar, using a technique known as pisé de terre, which involves using a mixture of mud and other natural materials to create a durable building material.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for the Royal Palaces of Abomey is 5,000 CFA francs (approximately 9 USD) per person. Guided tours of the palaces are available for an additional fee.
How to Reach It: The Royal Palaces of Abomey are located in the town of Abomey, which is approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) north of Cotonou, the capital of Benin. The easiest way to reach Abomey is by car or taxi, and the journey takes approximately 2-3 hours. Buses are also available from Cotonou to Abomey, but the journey can be long and uncomfortable.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options available in Abomey, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to more luxurious hotels. Some popular options include the Hotel de la Diaspora, the Hotel Mascotte, and the Hotel Couleur du temps.
Next Stop: W-Arly-Pendjari Complex
Year of Inscription: 1985
Criteria: (iii) bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared; (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates significant stages in human history;
Overview: The Royal Palaces of Abomey are a series of impressive mud-brick structures that served as the residence of the kings of the Kingdom of Dahomey, a powerful West African state that flourished from the 17th to the 19th centuries. The palaces provide an exceptional testimony to the culture and civilization of the Fon people of Benin.
Prominent Features: The Royal Palaces of Abomey are a series of interconnected buildings that are richly decorated with murals, bas-reliefs, and sculptures. The complex includes a variety of structures, including the King's Palace, the Grand Mosque, and the Palace of the Amazons. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palaces to learn about their history and significance.
History: The Kingdom of Dahomey was a powerful West African state that controlled much of present-day Benin from the 17th to the 19th centuries. The Royal Palaces of Abomey served as the residence of the kings of Dahomey, who used them to exert their authority over the surrounding region. The palaces also served as the site of important religious and cultural ceremonies.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Royal Palaces of Abomey are a great place for families to learn about the history and culture of Benin. Guided tours of the palaces are available, and visitors can also explore the nearby Abomey Historical Museum, which features exhibits on the history of Dahomey and the slave trade.
Fun Fact: The Royal Palaces of Abomey were constructed without the use of mortar, using a technique known as pisé de terre, which involves using a mixture of mud and other natural materials to create a durable building material.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for the Royal Palaces of Abomey is 5,000 CFA francs (approximately 9 USD) per person. Guided tours of the palaces are available for an additional fee.
How to Reach It: The Royal Palaces of Abomey are located in the town of Abomey, which is approximately 140 kilometers (87 miles) north of Cotonou, the capital of Benin. The easiest way to reach Abomey is by car or taxi, and the journey takes approximately 2-3 hours. Buses are also available from Cotonou to Abomey, but the journey can be long and uncomfortable.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options available in Abomey, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to more luxurious hotels. Some popular options include the Hotel de la Diaspora, the Hotel Mascotte, and the Hotel Couleur du temps.
Next Stop: W-Arly-Pendjari Complex