Are you ready for an adventure? Let’s explore Edo State! It’s a special place in Nigeria with lots to see and do. You can learn about their cultures and traditions, see historical sites and natural wonders, see fantastic arts and crafts, and even visit a wildlife park to watch the animals do their thing.
Edo State is full of captivating tales and hidden treasures. There are places where you can learn about the past, the cultures, traditions, and other things and have fun. So, whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just someone looking for a good time, Edo’s got something special cooking for you!
Now, let’s dive into the good stuff and check out the top 10 tourist attractions in Edo State that make it a must-visit destination. Trust me, by the end of this, you’ll be itching to pack your bags and see it all for yourself!
Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Edo State
Below are the tourist attractions in Edo State that you probably never knew existed and you’d want to visit:
1. The Oba’s Palace
The Oba’s Palace in Benin City is the home of the Oba, the king of the Benin people and it’s just like a Museum of its own. It’s been around for a long time, even before your grandparents’ grandparents were born! The palace has impressive things, like fancy carvings and bronze artefacts.
This isn’t just any old building; it’s a living, breathing piece of history. The palace has been home to the Obas of Benin since the history of Benin. The palace was destroyed during the 1894 war with the British but was later rebuilt in the period between 1914 to 1932.
The palace is like a museum that houses several artefacts, relics, deities, and shrines and stands as a preservation of the customs and traditions of the Benin people.
Some rules guard visitors when visiting the palace. You need to know several rules before visiting the palace, as you must do something other than barge into the palace. Some of these rules include:
- You must show respect to the Oba and his palace at all times.
- It is forbidden to use an umbrella within the palace grounds.
- Dogs are not allowed inside the palace.
- Avoid pointing at people, especially the Oba or his chiefs.
- Wearing black attire is generally discouraged as it is associated with mourning.
- Whistling within the palace is considered disrespectful.
- Photography may be restricted in certain areas.
2. Igun Street
Imagine walking down a street where magic happens! That’s Igun Street. It’s like a special place where artists turn metal into amazing things. This isn’t just any street – it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site! That’s right, it’s rubbing shoulders with the Great Wall of China and the Pyramids of Egypt.
Igun Street is home to the Guild of Bronze Casters, super-talented artists who have passed down their skills for generations. These people can turn any metal into a masterpiece.
When you visit Igun Street, you’ll see lots of shops with beautiful things made of bronze and brass. There are statues of kings, queens, and animals. There are also smaller things like jewellery and decorations for your home.
It’s like a museum where you can buy things! As you stroll down Igun Street, you’ll see artisans working hard, creating everything from tiny trinkets to massive statues. It’s like watching magic happen right before your eyes. And the best part? You can buy some of these fantastic pieces to take home.
3. Okomu National Park
Imagine a place filled with tall trees, cool air, and many unique and rare animals. That’s Okomu National Park! It’s like a big, green playground for nature lovers filled with different species of animals.
Okomu is notable because it’s one of the few places left with the kind of forest that used to cover a big part of Nigeria that houses many endangered species.
You can see fantastic animals like monkeys, birds, and even elephants. You can walk on walk paths or walkways, climb tall trees, and learn about all the plants and animals there.
The park also has some pretty cool facilities for visitors. You can stay in tree houses (yes, you read that right, actual houses in trees!) and take guided tours through the forest. Just remember to bring your mosquito repellent – those little buggers love tourists as much as we love the park!
4. Captain Phillips Grave
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “A grave? Really?” But trust me, this isn’t just any old burial site. Captain Phillips’ grave is like a history book come to life, telling a tale of colonial times and the complex relationship between Britain and the Benin Kingdom.
Captain James Phillip was a British naval officer who led an expedition to Benin in 1897. Let’s say things didn’t go as planned, and poor Captain Phillips ended up six feet under. His grave now is a sad reminder of a tumultuous period in Edo’s history.
The grave is simple – no fancy statues or elaborate tombstones here. But what it lacks in bling, it makes up for in historical significance. It’s like a time capsule, giving us a glimpse into a pivotal moment that shaped the future of Benin and Nigeria.
Captain Phillips’ expedition led to the British Punitive Expedition, which looted many Benin artefacts. Some of these are now in museums worldwide, causing ongoing debates about repatriation. Who knew a single grave could spark so much discussion?
Visiting Captain Phillips’ grave might not be as fun as frolicking with monkeys in Okomu, but it’s thought-provoking. It’s a chance to reflect on the past and how it’s shaped the present.
5. Gelegele Historical Port
Gelegele Port in Ovia North Local Government Area of Edo State isn’t just any old dock – it’s like the granddaddy of all ports in the region. Back in the day (we’re talking way back), this was the hub where trade between the Benin Kingdom and European merchants went down. It was basically the Amazon dot com of its time but with more boats and fewer delivery drones.
Today, Gelegele Port might not be as busy as it once was, but it still has stories to tell. The old structures and remnants of the port give you a real sense of what it must have been like when ships from far-off lands would dock here, loaded with goods to trade.
Gelegele Port played a crucial role in the infamous rubber trade of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It was like the Silicon Valley of rubber production back in the day.
While the port might be more of a historical site than a working harbour, there’s talk of reviving it. Who knows? One day, we’ll see Gelegele return to its former glory. In the meantime, it’s a great place to let your imagination run wild and picture yourself as a daring trader from centuries past!
6. The National Museum, Benin City
The National Museum in Benin City is like a time machine, a treasure chest, and an art gallery, all rolled into one fantastic package that will blow your mind. The Museum is located in Benin City, which is very convenient for visitors to find.
This place is full of artefacts that’ll make your head spin. We’re talking intricately carved ivory tusks, ancient bronze plaques, and enough royal regalia to make you feel like you’ve stumbled into the Oba’s closet. It’s like raiding your grandpa’s iron box if your grandpa happened to be the king of an ancient African kingdom!
The Museum isn’t just about showing off old stuff; It’s also about telling the story of Benin and its people. Each artefact has a tale to tell, from ordinary folks’ everyday lives to the royal court’s grand ceremonies.
Some of the bronze plaques in the Museum are replicas of originals that were… let’s say, “borrowed” by British colonists. It’s like a game of historical hide-and-seek, with artefacts scattered in museums worldwide!
One of the most incredible things about the National Museum is how it brings history to life. You’re not just looking at dusty old relics – you’re getting a front-row seat to centuries of Benin culture.Â
7. The Benin Moat
The Benin Moat, also known as the Great Wall of Benin, is an impressive historical landmark that once served as a defensive structure for the ancient Benin Kingdom. This remarkable earthwork is recognized as one of the most significant man-made structures in the world, stretching over 16,000 kilometres in length.Â
The moat was constructed in the 13th century and protected the city from invasions. It showcases the Benin people’s engineering prowess and ability to create sophisticated defensive systems. The moat is not just a physical barrier; it symbolises the strength and resilience of the Benin Kingdom throughout its history.Â
What makes the Benin Moat unique is its scale and the ingenuity behind its construction. It was built using earth and clay, and its depth and width vary across sections. Walking along the moat, visitors can appreciate the historical context and imagine the lives of those who once inhabited the fortified city.Â
8. Ogba Zoo, Benin City
Ogba Zoo, officially known as Ogba Zoo & Nature Park, is a prominent zoological park in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. The zoo was established in 1971 and covers an impressive 750 acres. It is located within a forest reserve in the Ogba District, a few kilometres from the city centre.Â
The zoo has many different animals, including ones from nearby and faraway places, like monkeys, lions, tortoises, snakes, and other kinds of deer and antelope.Â
What sets Ogba Zoo apart is its combination of natural surroundings and wildlife in a peaceful setting. Visitors can explore the zoo while observing animals in habitats resembling their original homes in the wild.
9. Somorika Hills (Ososo Tourist Centre)
Somorika Hills, part of the Ososo Tourist Centre, is a feast for the eyes. You can climb up the mountain and feel like a real-life explorer. There are fantastic views from the top, and you can see for miles and miles. You can also pack a picnic and relax in the fresh air.
But Somorika isn’t just about pretty views – It’s also a place for various outdoor activities. You can go hiking or climbing rocks, as mentioned earlier. Somorika Hills is home to some fascinating rock formations that geologists go gaga over.Â
One of the most incredible things about Somorika is its cultural significance. The hills have been a sacred site for local communities for generations. It’s like a natural cathedral where the spirits of the ancestors are said to dwell.Â
10. Lampese Crocodile Lake
Lampese Crocodile Lake is like the ultimate reptile resort. It’s home to a whole bunch of Nile crocodiles who are living their best lives in these warm waters.Â
Seeing these giant reptiles in their natural home is exciting, but being careful is also important. You can watch them from a safe distance and learn how amazing these creatures are.
The lake isn’t just about the crocodiles, though. The surrounding area has places for fishing, safaris, and much more. Visiting Lampese Crocodile Lake is a unique experience, and learning about the local ecosystem and legends.
Wrapping Up
What a journey we’ve been on, right? From the royal palace to crocodile-filled lakes, Edo State is like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’ll get, but it’s all very intriguing and an adventure. But here’s the thing – reading about these places is one thing; experiencing them is a whole other ball game.Â
Edo State isn’t just a destination; it’s a journey through time, culture, and nature. It’s a place where every street corner has a story to tell, every artefact has a secret to share, and every landscape has a view to take your breath away. Checkout Tourist Attractions in Ebonyi State
