The ancient kingdom of Benin is known to be one of the richest and most powerful kingdoms in the entire history of Nigeria.
The great Benin kingdom was a pre-colonial kingdom in Southern Nigeria.
In modern days, a part of the former kingdom is now popular as Edo State with its capital, Benin city.
Here are 5 interesting facts about the Ancient Kingdom that truly defines how great the Benin Kingdom look like:
1. The Oldest church in West Africa
The oldest church in West Africa was established in great Benin by the early Portuguese missionaries in the 16TH century which is now called as the holy Aruosa (Benin National Church).
After the establishments, Pope Pius XII visited the state to hand over the church to the Oba of Benin whose name was Oreoghene in 1962 AD.
2. An Oba of Benin established the first Oba of Lagos
Oba Orhogbua discovered Lagos and planted a dukedom, the Obaship of Lagos.
His reign was celebrated by the expansion of the empire westwards.
He also founded Eko and Badagry and not only that, but the establishment of Monarchical rule was also made in those places.
His own representatives were made there to rule the people.
He then established the first Oba of Lagos.
Read also: 5 Things You Should Know About The Lagos To Ibadan Railway
3. Oba Ehengbuda was the last Oba of Benin to come out physically to act as a leader in battle.
He became the last to physically lead Benin armies to a battle.
Shortly after he died in 1601, The Benin Kingdom started reducing in size.
4. The people of Benin are known to be the best in bronze casting.
Bronze casting is believed to be one of the greatest defining characteristics of the historic kingdom of Benin.
The tradition of bronze casting was built in the 14TH Century by Oba Oguola.
5. The great influence of Oba
It was reported that the Oba of the great Benin Kingdom could make available over 20,000 powerful men for war in a single day.
This was as a result of his great influence among all the surrounding peoples.
With his authority, many cities, towns and villages were expanded.
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