Visiting the palace of traditional rulers in any state you travel to helps you learn the history and customs of the people of the land. While historical tales of jihad might be frightening for visitors at an Emir’s Palace, it explains the transcendence of religion. Though Nigeria is a democracy, people still revere the pre-colonial monarchies today.
These royal palaces square measure like associate degree African dream return true. Even if you can’t afford to live in your own palace, you can see what it might be like by visiting some of Nigeria’s most stunning palaces.
The Sultan of Sokoto’s Palace
This patriotic looking building is home to the traditional and spiritual leader of the Sokoto Caliphate. It features an extensive courtyard lined with trees and green plants that make you feel you are in a period movie. It has a museum with traditional and cultural relics from the era of previous Sultans’. You get to see the Palace guards dressed in fitted multi-coloured regalia and robes. The palace has lots of luxurious bedrooms and a mosque. If you are lucky to visit during a special occasion, you might see the Sultan’s famous trumpeters.
The Benin Palace
The Royal Palace of Oba of Benin is notable because the home of the Oba of Benin and different royals. The palace, built by Oba Ewedo (1255AD – 1280AD), is located at the heart of ancient City of Benin. It was restored by Oba Eweka II (1914–1932) once the initial building was destroyed throughout the 1897 war with the British.
The Royal Palace of Oba of Benin could be a celebration and preservation of the made Benin culture. Most of the guests to the palace are curators, archaeologists or historians.
Located within the heart of African country, the Benin palace homes the standard ruling house and seat of authority of Benin.
Ooni Of Ife Palace
In the City of Ife, the ancestral home of the Yorubas is the abode of the Palace of the Ooni. In Enuwa town in Ile Ife, this palace dates as far back as 500 BC. The Palace has been renovated over the years to its current immaculate-looking state with its luxurious courtyard. It is a Palace worth visiting.
The Ooni’s palace has been in existence for centuries, as far back as 500 BC and is located in the centre of a city called Enuwa in Ile-Ife.
The Obi of Ontisha Palace
The Palace of the Obi which is in Onitsha, Anambra state is the residence of the Igwe, traditional ruler and head of the Onitsha Kingdom. Its architecture is reminiscent of the colonial era which is a sight indeed. The Obi’s palace has a large expanse of land where people gather to celebrate during festivals. Enjoy a tour of the Palace grounds with the palace staff dressed in unique garb. The compound is a gallery displaying statues of previous rulers and artworks of cultural importance.
The Iga Idungaran
This is the home of the Oba of Lagos. Built on the day Nigeria gained her independence in 1960, this Palace is considered as an administrative centre. Its name can be translated to mean The home or Palace built on a pepper farm. But there is nothing ordinary about this palace, it is rich in history with superior architecture. It includes the burial grounds for the previous Obas not buried in Benin City.
The Palace of the Olu of Warri
In Ode-Itsekiri lies the Palace of the Olu, the home of the Itsekiri Monarch of Warri Kingdom. It is partly opened to the public because it is the private residence of the Ogiame these days. The architecture is striking, and its interior is European-styled.
The Palace of the Emir of Bauchi
This grand palace plays tribute to the ingeniousness of pre-colonial builders. All the materials used to build the palace are local, and the architecture has been preserved throughout the years. Its courtyard, are other structures used for council meetings and the home of the Emir. It provides a good view for watching the Durbar festival and is home to some unique birds.
The Palace of the Emir of Zazzau
You can find this Palace in the city of Zaria. It is a picturesque building made with traditional Habe architecture. Having its walls decorated with the Emir’s insignia makes it a great photo spot. Plus, it is close to the Zaria Forest reserve, for nature lovers who want something else to accompany the history of the Zaria Emirate shared in the palace.
Gidan Rumfa
This is the Palace of the Emir of Kano in the city of Kano. Built in the late 15th century, this Palace forebears Kano’s historical and traditional heritage. It is a mixture of both traditional and modern architectural elements is in tune with the culture of the people. The Palace has an open area for Durbar festivals and opposite it, is the Kano Museum filled with interesting pre-colonial pieces.
What other palaces do you think should have made the list?
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