The Musee Histsorique d’ Abomey was created by the French colonial administration in 1943. With a surface of about 5 acres, it is situated on the palatial site and comprises the palaces of King Guézo and King Glèlè. The entire palatial site extends over approximately 108 acres and has been on UNESCO's World Heritage list since 1985. It is a culmination of history, living culture and tourism. Abomey is a town in the Republic of Benin situated on the Gulf of Guinea,and was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Danhomè (Dahomey). It is about 65 miles from the coast. The Royal Palaces in the heart of the city are major material evidence of this civilisation.

The Musee Histsorique d’ Abomey contains 1,050 objects representing principally the property of the kings who reigned over Danhomè. The collections are made up of arms, thrones carved in one block of wood (each king had one or several thrones which he used during important ceremonies), jewellery, portable altars in metal ("assin") dedicated to ancestors or deceased kings whose spirits they represent, and sculptured animals symbolising the kings. They also contain appliquéd cloths recounting events, royal emblems and insignia, musical instruments, photos of important events and ceremonies, objects imported from Europe given to the kings and about 50 old bas-reliefs which have been restored and are exhibited in the Museum.

Discover more Museums >