What are 5 interesting facts about Benin?
Fun Facts About Benin
- Benin was once called the Dahomey – it first acquired the name “Benin” in 1975.
- It derives its name from the large body of water at the southern end of the colony “the Bight of Benin.”
- The capital city of Benin is Porto-Novo but the largest city is Cotonou which is also home to the government.
What is Benin famous for?
Benin City has long been famous for its “bronzes”—actually brass work, some of which is said to date from the 13th century—and for its ivory and wood carvings. Its museum (1960) has a notable collection of some of the kingdom’s early pieces.
Why is Benin called Benin?
Etymology. During French colonial rule and after independence, the country was named Dahomey, after the Kingdom of Dahomey. On 30 November 1975, the country was renamed Benin following a Marxist-Leninist military coup.
What did Benin used to be called?
Dahomey
Benin, officially Republic of Benin, French République du Bénin, formerly (until 1975) Dahomey or (1975–90) People’s Republic of Benin, country of western Africa.
What is the national animal of Benin?
leopards
The shield is supported by a pair of leopards, the national animal of Benin.
What is the most popular food in Benin?
Benin cuisine
- Maize is the most common staple food in southern Benin.
- Location of Benin.
- Yams are the most common staple food in northern Benin.
- Acarajé is peeled black-eyed peas formed into a ball and then deep-fried.
- Aloko (fried plantain)
- A plate of fufu (right) accompanied with peanut soup.
Who discovered Benin?
The first European travelers to reach Benin were Portuguese explorers under João Afonso de Aveiro in about 1485. A strong mercantile relationship developed, with the Edo trading slaves and tropical products such as ivory, pepper and palm oil for European goods such as manillas and guns.
How old is Benin Kingdom?
The Benin Kingdom was “one of the oldest and most developed states in the coastal hinterland of West Africa”. It was formed around the 11th century AD, and lasted until it was annexed by the British Empire in 1897….Kingdom of Benin.
| Kingdom of Benin Edo | |
|---|---|
| Today part of | Nigeria |
What is the symbol of Benin?
| Coat of arms of Benin | |
|---|---|
| Crest | Two cornucopias sable, ears of corn coming therefrom; |
| Blazon | Quarterly,1, Argent, a Somba Castle Or, 2, Argent, a Star of Benin proper, 3, Argent, a Palm Tree vert charged with fruit gules, 4, Argent, a ship sable sailing on a sea azure with a sewn upon the line of quartering a lozenge gules |