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Porto Novo Benin Last Updated: 11/06/2024 |
Porto-Novo is the official capital of Benin, located in West Africa along the Gulf of Guinea. It’s the second-largest city in the country, after Cotonou, which is the economic hub. Known for its rich history and diverse cultural influences, Porto-Novo has roots that trace back to the colonial period and beyond, blending local Yoruba traditions with French and Portuguese legacies. | |
- Colonial Legacy: Established as a port for the Portuguese in the 16th century, Porto-Novo became the capital of the French colony of Dahomey (now Benin) in the 19th century. This history has left an architectural and cultural footprint that is still visible. - Slave Trade: Like many West African coastal cities, Porto-Novo was part of the trans-Atlantic slave trade route, which profoundly impacted its history and culture. - Yoruba Influence: The Yoruba people, one of the major ethnic groups in the area, have contributed significantly to Porto-Novo’s language, art, and religious practices. - Voodoo and Indigenous Religions: Voodoo (or Vodun), a traditional religion that originated in this region, is practiced here and is integral to local customs and festivals. |
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Benin Place » City Benin, officially the Republic of Benin, is a country in West Africa. The capital is Porto-Novo, and the seat of government is in Cotonou, the most populous city and economic capital. Its population in 2022 was estimated to be 13,754,688. Agriculture plays an important role in Benin's economy, generating 70 per cent of employment and nearly 25 per cent of GDP. 24 views 💖 1Africa |
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