Visit Ile-Ife / Albert Ogunde

Описание: Ile-Ife is an ancient city in Osun State, southwestern Nigeria, widely regarded as the spiritual and historical cradle of the Yoruba people. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in West Africa.

🏛️ Historical Importance

Considered the origin city of the Yoruba civilization according to oral tradition.

Yoruba mythology teaches that Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba, established kingship there.

Served as a major religious, political, and cultural center from around the 11th–15th centuries.

Known for early urban development with organized streets and sacred compounds.

👑 Traditional Authority

The traditional ruler is the Ooni of Ife, one of the most respected monarchs in Yorubaland.

The Ooni is regarded as a key spiritual leader and custodian of Yoruba tradition.

The palace remains an important ritual and cultural institution.

🗿 Art & Archaeology

Famous worldwide for Ife bronze and terracotta heads and figures discovered in the 20th century.

These artworks show highly realistic craftsmanship, proving advanced metalworking and artistic skill centuries ago.

The finds significantly reshaped global understanding of pre-colonial African art.

⛩️ Religion & Culture

Contains many shrines, sacred groves, and ritual sites linked to Yoruba deities (Orisha).

Important festivals and rites are still performed there.

Closely connected spiritually to nearby Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove and other heritage sites.

🎓 Modern Significance

Home to Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) — one of Nigeria’s leading universities.

Functions today as both a living traditional city and an academic hub.

Tourism, culture, and education are major drivers of its present identity.