10 Things to Do in the Royal Palaces of Abomey Cove, Benin
Nestled in the heart of West Africa, the Royal Palaces of Abomey Cove in Benin are a stunning example of African cultural heritage. The palaces, which span over 500 years of history, were once the home of the powerful Kings of Dahomey, an ancient West African kingdom. Today, the palaces are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Benin. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Royal Palaces of Abomey Cove.
1. Explore the Palaces: The Royal Palaces of Abomey Cove are made up of 12 different palaces, each with its own unique history and architecture. The palaces are divided into two distinct areas: the inner and outer courtyards. The inner courtyards are where the kings of Dahomey lived and worked, while the outer courtyards were used for ceremonies and rituals. Visitors can explore the palaces and learn about the history of the kingdom.
2. Visit the Royal Tombs: In the center of the palaces lies the Royal Tombs, where the kings of Dahomey were laid to rest. The tombs are an important part of the palaces, and are worth a visit.
3. Learn About the Kingdom: The Royal Palaces of Abomey Cove are a great opportunity to learn about the history of the Kingdom of Dahomey. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palaces to learn about the kings, their culture, and the history of the kingdom.
4. Take in the Views: The Royal Palaces of Abomey Cove are located on a hill overlooking the city of Abomey. From the top of the hill, visitors can get stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
5. Visit the Museum: The Royal Palaces of Abomey Cove also house a museum, which is dedicated to the history of the Kingdom of Dahomey. The museum contains artifacts from the kingdom, including weapons, jewelry, and pottery.
6. Check Out the Crafts: The Royal Palaces of Abomey Cove is also home to a number of local craftspeople. Visitors can purchase traditional crafts such as masks, pottery, and jewelry from the craftspeople.
7. Visit the Markets: The city of Abomey is home to a number of markets, where visitors can buy local goods such as food, clothing, and crafts.
8. Take a Boat Ride: The Royal Palaces of Abomey Cove are located on the edge of Lake Nokoué, a large lake in the area. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake to take in the scenery and get a different perspective of the palaces.
9. Try the Local Cuisine: Benin is home to a variety of delicious local dishes. Visitors can try the local cuisine in one of the many restaurants in Abomey.
10. Enjoy the Nightlife: The city of Abomey is home to a vibrant nightlife scene. Visitors can enjoy a night out at one of the city’s many bars and clubs.
The Royal Palaces of Abomey Cove are a must-see for any visitor to Benin. From exploring the palaces and tombs to trying the local cuisine and enjoying the nightlife, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this amazing West African kingdom.