Benin

Discover Benin

Fun Foods

Pâte de maïs, Djèwo , Yovo doko, Kuli-kuli

Benin had an all-female army that terrified European soldiers. The Dahomey Amazons were so fierce that French troops called them the most formidable warriors they'd ever faced.

These women fought from the 1600s until 1894, making them the only female army in modern history.

The Kingdom of Dahomey ruled this land for almost 300 years. They became powerful by controlling Ouidah, a major port city.

Sadly, this power came from the slave trade, which didn't end until 1852 when the British navy blocked the coast.

In 1892, France decided they wanted Benin (then called Dahomey). The Amazons and their king fought back hard, but French weapons were too strong.

France took over in 1894 and stayed in charge until August 1, 1960, when Benin finally kicked them out and became independent.

In 1975, the country changed its name from Dahomey to Benin. It was like saying "we're done with that old chapter."

Want to see something wild? Visit Ganvie, Africa's largest village built completely on water.

Twenty thousand people live in houses on stilts above Lake Nokoue. They paddle canoes to school, the market, and even church.

The Royal Palaces of Abomey show where the Dahomey kings lived and ruled. At the Temple of Pythons in Ouidah, you can see dozens of sacred snakes. They're not venomous, so don't freak out.

Benin is where Voodoo was born. Over 60% of people still practice it today, and it's the official religion.

Every January, the huge Voodoo Festival in Ouidah brings thousands of people for ceremonies, dancing, and drumming. Women play the main role in teaching and leading these rituals.

The food here is all about corn. Pâte de maïs (corn paste) is the national dish and gets served with almost everything.

Try yovo doko, which are basically African donuts covered in powdered sugar. Kuli-kuli are fried peanut balls that taste like crunchy peanut butter. And atassi, a mix of rice and beans with spicy tomatoes, will warm you right up.