Abomey is a city located in southern Benin. It sits just 145 km north of Cotonou. Discovering the city of Abomey would undoubtedly be an opportunity to learn about the history and origins of the Kingdom of Dahomey. It was this very city that gave the name Dahomey to the Republic of Benin. Additionally, it would be a chance to glimpse its historical museum, sacred forests and diverse cultures.

HISTORY

Recognized as the former capital of the Kingdom of Dahomey, Abomey was established around 1625, according to tradition. There was a time when it was a tangibly organized military kingdom. The kingdom quickly expanded toward the coastal zone in the south, where weapons and slave trafficking were concentrated. Subsequently, Abomey dominated the kingdom of Allada, which became linked to Porto-Novo. From 1625 to 1900, the kingdom saw 12 successive kings at its head. All these kings built their private palaces next to one another, with the exception of the 4th king Akaba. He preferred originality, constructing a distinctive enclosure unlike all those who had reigned before. Still deeply hostile toward Europeans, the 10th king of Abomey, Glélé (1854–1889), and his son Béhanzin continuously fought against the French. Despite their efforts, the confrontation proved futile. Finally, in 1892, the city fell into French hands, particularly under General Alfred Amédé Dodds. Consumed by rage, Béhanzin set fire to the palace of Abomey, reducing all its treasures to ashes.

TODAY

One can discover different types of architecture throughout the city of Abomey. Indeed, it boasts royal architecture, evident in the presence of royal palaces and homes belonging to royal families. The city also features ordinary architecture visible throughout, with traditional wooden houses. There is also cultural architecture closely related to vodoun culture—temples and convents adorned with bas-reliefs. Finally, colonial architecture has left its mark through modern and contemporary-style houses.

The municipality of Abomey has also gained fame for its sacred forests, which blanket the city's peripheries. It was in these sacred forests that vodoun ceremonies took place every five days of the week. For information, the International Festival of Dahomey Cultures is held in the first half of December each year.

Regarding biodiversity (fauna and flora), Abomey remains among Benin's best-preserved cities. In these vast green forests, one can find a multitude of trees and shrubs of various species. You can also observe reptiles, wild cats and other wildlife of West Africa.

The city's economy is generally sustained by livestock and agriculture. The region also hosts small-scale industries transforming agricultural products into finished goods or consumable seeds.

Beyond the biodiversity and architecture of this magnificent town, you can explore the entire city and meet its inhabitants. Learn more about their culture, habits and daily way of life.

In terms of craftsmanship, the city of Abomey is well-recognized for its expertise in artisanal arts. During the era of royalty, it was the activity most appreciated by the kings of Abomey—which is why certain objects found in the royal palaces have become historic artifacts. In Dahomean culture, we can trace the types of arts practiced since the city's founding. In the art markets, you can see court arts such as: appliqué, sculpture, weaving, metalwork, basketry, pottery and carved gourds.

CLIMATE

The city of Abomey experiences a savanna climate, primarily with a dry season. The average annual temperature ranges between 25°C to 29°C. However, temperatures can drop to 22°C at night. Moderate rainfall averages 92 mm. The best months to spend a holiday there are: November and December, January and February.

Most tourists traveling in Benin stay primarily in Cotonou. Not only is it the country's economic capital, but it is also a hub for travelers from other countries. Therefore, to reach Abomey, the ideal option is to travel from Cotonou. The city offers a range of vehicle rental agencies.

With a rental car, you can take the route that leads to Allada and on to Bohicon. Once you arrive in Bohicon, accessing the city of Abomey will be straightforward.

Beyond car rentals, you can also go to Red Star Square, where intercity transport companies operate. Reservations should be made 24 hours before departure.