Abomey is a historic city in south-central Benin, former capital of the powerful Dahomey Kingdom that dominated this part of West Africa from the 17th to 19th centuries. The Royal Palaces of Abomey — a sprawling complex of twelve palaces built by successive kings — are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the main reason travellers come here. The palaces house remarkable bas-relief carvings depicting court life, military campaigns, and the kingdom's myths; the Abomey Historical Museum within the complex is one of the best in the region. Beyond the palace complex, vodun temples including the remarkable Chameleon Temple can be visited with a local guide. The city is about 145 km north of Cotonou.
Abomey
Historic Beninese city of Dahomey royal palaces, bas-reliefs, vodun temples, and court history
Guide
Things to Do
Abomey's main draw is the UNESCO World Heritage Royal Palaces, which includes the Abomey Historical Museum within its grounds. The bas-relief carved walls and the royal regalia are the highlight. A guide is strongly recommended — the site has complex history and the museum labels are limited. Outside the palace complex, vodun temples are accessible in and around town, including a notable chameleon temple reachable with a local guide.
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Royal Palaces of AbomeyUNESCO-listed complex of twelve Dahomey kings' palaces spanning two centuriesSight
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Abomey Historical MuseumOne of West Africa's best regional museums, housed within the palace complexMuseum
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Vodun TemplesActive vodun shrines and the remarkable Chameleon Temple on the town's outskirtsSight