Benin Republic - General

The Republic of Benin, formerly known as Dahomey, is a nation rich in history and culture. It's known for its transition to democracy, its vibrant Vodun traditions, and its youthful population. Additionally, Benin holds a significant place in the history of the transatlantic slave trade.

Here are some fun facts about Benin:

From Dahomey to Benin:

The country was formerly known as the Kingdom of Dahomey and changed its name to Benin in 1975.

Birthplace of Vodun:

Benin is considered the birthplace of Vodun (also spelled Voodoo), a traditional religion practiced by a significant portion of the population.

Young Population:

Benin has one of the youngest populations in the world, with a median age of around 17 and approximately 65% of the population under 25 years old.

Democratic Transition:

Benin was the first African country to transition from a dictatorship to a multi-party democracy.

Slave Trade Legacy:

The country was a major center for the transatlantic slave trade, with Ouidah being one of the most active ports.

Independence Day:

Benin celebrates its independence from France on August 1st, the date it gained full independence in 1960.

Royal Palaces of Abomey:

These palaces, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcase bas-reliefs that tell the stories and history of the Kingdom of Dahomey.

Language:

The official language is French, but only a portion of the population speaks it fluently.

Snakes are Revered:

Unlike many other places, snakes, particularly royal pythons, are revered in Benin and even have their own temple.

"Venice of Africa":

Ganvie, a stilt village on Lake Nokoue, is known as the "Venice of Africa" and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.