Benin City
Nigeria · Edo · 88 m
Description
Benin City was the capital of the Kingdom of Benin, whose court art in brass and ivory is among the most accomplished ever produced anywhere. The Benin Bronzes were looted by a British expedition in 1897 and scattered through museums across Europe and North America, and their return is one of the longest running restitution disputes in the world. The National Museum on Ring Road holds those that remain in the city. The Oba's palace still functions as a royal court, and brass casters work in Igun Street, a guild quarter that has cast for the palace for seven hundred years.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: July – August or November – February
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Igun Street brass casters
- National Museum Benin City
- Oba's Palace
- Benin Bronzes & court art
- Benin Moat earthworks
- Emotan Statue
- Oba Ewuare II palace ceremonies
- Benin City markets
- Edo cultural performances
Getting there
- Airports:
- BNI