10 Things to Do in the Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires de Abomey (Abomey Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions) Lokossa Benin
The Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires de Abomey (Abomey Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions) in Lokossa, Benin, is a unique cultural and historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the past and present of Benin. The museum houses a wealth of artifacts and documents from the ancient kingdom of Abomey, which existed from the 17th to the 19th centuries. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about Benin's history and culture. Here are 10 things to do at the Abomey Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions:
1. Explore the Traditional Artifacts: The Abomey Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions houses a collection of over 4,000 artifacts from the ancient kingdom of Abomey. These artifacts include sculptures, masks, jewelry, weapons, musical instruments, and more. Visitors can explore the history and culture of the kingdom through these artifacts.
2. Learn About the History of Abomey: The museum offers visitors the chance to learn more about the history of the kingdom of Abomey. The museum has a permanent exhibit that tells the story of the kingdom, from its founding to its eventual decline.
3. View the Royal Palaces: Visitors can also explore the ruins of the royal palaces of Abomey. The palaces were built between the 17th and 19th centuries and are a reminder of the kingdom's power and influence.
4. See the Traditional Houses: The museum also has a collection of traditional houses from the kingdom. These houses were used by the kings and their families and offer an insight into the lifestyle of the kingdom's rulers.
5. Visit the Sacred Sites: The museum also houses several sacred sites from the kingdom. These sites are important to the local people and offer visitors a unique glimpse into the spiritual beliefs of the kingdom.
6. Explore the Crafts: The Abomey Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions also has a collection of traditional crafts from the kingdom. These crafts include pottery, basketry, and woodworking. Visitors can learn more about the crafts of the kingdom and purchase handmade items from local artisans.
7. Visit the Gardens: The museum has several gardens that are open to the public. These gardens are filled with native plants and offer visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
8. Attend a Performance: The museum also hosts traditional performances throughout the year. These performances are a great way to experience the culture and history of the kingdom in a unique way.
9. Take a Tour: The museum offers guided tours that allow visitors to explore the museum and learn more about its collections.
10. Shop for Souvenirs: The museum also has a shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and traditional items from the kingdom. These items are a great way to remember your visit to the museum and the kingdom of Abomey.
The Musée des Arts et Traditions Populaires de Abomey (Abomey Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions) in Lokossa, Benin, is a unique cultural and historical site that offers visitors a chance to learn more about the history and culture of the kingdom of Abomey. From exploring the traditional artifacts to attending a traditional performance, there are plenty of things to do at the Abomey Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions. Whether you're visiting Benin for the first time or you're a returning visitor, this museum is a must-visit destination.