10 Things to Do in the Royal Palaces of Abomey, Aplahoue Benin
The Royal Palaces of Abomey, Aplahoue Benin are one of the most important historical sites in West Africa. The palaces were built by the Fon people in the 17th and 18th centuries and are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palaces are a testament to the power and wealth of the Fon people and provide visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the culture and history of the region. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Royal Palaces of Abomey, Aplahoue Benin.
1. Explore the Palaces: The palaces are made up of 12 different buildings, all of which have their own unique history and architecture. Visitors can explore the palaces and learn about the Fon people and their culture.
2. Visit the Museum: The Royal Palaces of Abomey have a museum that houses artifacts from the Fon people, including jewelry, pottery, and sculptures. The museum is a wonderful way to learn more about the culture and history of the area.
3. Take a Guided Tour: Guided tours are available that will take visitors through the palaces and explain the history and significance of each building.
4. Visit the Royal Cemetery: The Royal Cemetery is located next to the palaces and is the final resting place of many of the Fon kings and queens.
5. Take a Cooking Class: The Royal Palaces of Abomey offer cooking classes, where visitors can learn about the traditional Fon cuisine.
6. Shop at the Market: The Royal Palaces of Abomey have a market where visitors can purchase traditional Fon crafts and souvenirs.
7. Attend a Traditional Fon Performance: The Royal Palaces of Abomey host traditional Fon performances, such as music and dance, that visitors can attend.
8. Take a Horseback Ride: Visitors can take a horseback ride through the palaces and explore the area in a unique way.
9. Visit the Local Village: The Fon people still live in the area and visitors can visit the local village to learn more about their culture and way of life.
10. Attend a Festival: The Royal Palaces of Abomey host several festivals throughout the year, such as the Festival of the Kings and the Festival of the Queens.
Visiting the Royal Palaces of Abomey, Aplahoue Benin is a unique and fascinating experience. There are many things to do and explore and visitors will be sure to come away with a better understanding of the Fon people and their culture.