6 Places to Visit in Benin City
If you’re visiting Benin for the first time, you might be slightly overwhelmed by the sheer age of the city. What you should keep in mind is that there are fascinating stories etched on the walls and around the ancient city. You will definitely enjoy learning about and seeing an important part of African history and art.
The ancient city of Benin is the home of the Benin kingdom, one of the major African kingdoms of the 12th to 18th century. It is also home to various artworks, artefacts and relics of the rich African cultural heritage. Benin City is well known across the globe for the traditional Bronze sculptures.
Places of interest in Benin City include:
The Oba’s Palace: Although it doesn’t have the splendour of gold and marble of other palaces around the world, the Benin palace is a cultural and historical goldmine and it strives to retain its ancient trappings. The Oba’s palace has been standing for hundreds of years and is one of the greatest museums in the world. It holds a large art collection of bronze and ivory sculptures and ancestral shrines, and it became a UNESCO cultural heritage site in 1999. You are more likely to learn about history by visiting the palace than by reading a history book. However, when you visit the palace, please do not point, whistle, wear black clothing, open umbrellas, or bring your dog with you.
King’s Square: This used to be an unremarkable place, but it has been revamped by the present government. It hosts, among others, a beautiful water fountain and a museum. It’s a nice place to take a date if she likes art and fountains or if you’re low on cash.
Kada Plaza: This is one of the few modern relaxation spots in the ancient city. There are nice bars, arcades, kart racing, Chinese restaurant and cinemas. It’s a great place to have fun with friends and if you bring your kids along, they’ll have a great time too.
The University of Benin (Ekenwan campus): The University of Benin Ekenwan campus boasts beautiful sculptures, a pleasant landscape and, of course, beautiful ladies. It hosts the art, music, and theatre departments of the University of Benin. It’s a nice place to visit if you’re interested in art.
The University of Benin (Ugbowo campus): This is one major reason why young people visit Benin, to acquire a university education. It is located at Ugbowo, the outskirts of the city. On entering the University campus, you’re greeted by an imposing University gate and sculptures which keep on bending till the University logo arises out of the last one directly opposite the University auditorium. The University is well arranged with lawns and hedges and clean paved streets dotted with street lights. This supposedly serene environment is in stark contrast to the surrounding host communities.
GRA at night: Benin City is not the best place for night crawlers as the most of the city goes dead at night. But, if you want some night time entertainment, the GRA hosts quite a number of clubs which can cater to all your night crawling needs.
Other places of interest would certainly pop up as you go around in the ancient city of Benin. Please, do enjoy your stay.
