Vastly cultural, justifiably traditional, and fairly cosmopolitan, Ile-Ife in Osun state, Southwest Nigeria is
like an egg that is always accorded respect by all and sundry. The
greatness attributed to Ile-Ife is well-deserved because it is the
cradle of an important Nigerian race; Yoruba. This is part of the reason
why the Ooni of Ife, the custodian of Ife norms and traditions, is
revered and powerful at home and abroad.
Adding
to the cultural fascination of Ile-Ife is an aesthetic tourist
destination that is known for giving visitors an indelible treat. One
thing this city is recognized for globally is its age-long art history
depicted by bronze heads of the kings of Ile-Ife which dates as far back
as the 1300 BC. Unfortunately many of these heads have been looted.
Jovago.com, Africa’s No 1 hotel booking portal shines the spotlight
on this culturally and art rich town.
Top three sites
Oranmiyan Staff
In
an ancient city like Ile-Ife, mysterious finds are never rare. One top
tourist attraction that has defy explanations how it got there is the
Oranmiyan Staff (Opa Oranmiyan). The staff is 18 feet above the ground
and some deft designs are on it. The mystery attached to the staff has
brought tourists from all over the world to see it. The Oranmiyan Staff
can be seen at the Oranmiyan Shrine at the Arubidi quarter of Ile-Ife.
Although certain traditional rites are performed there, it is still open
to tourists. But there are some parts of the shrine that could only be
accessed by those who are can only be peopled by initiates. The
Oranmiyan obelisk is hundreds of years old and has history behind.
National Museum, Ife
The
national Museum, located in Ile-Ife Osun State Nigeria, is well known
for it’s archaeological exhibits of the Yoruba art of terracotta and
bronze figures. It is the next door neighbour of the Ooni’s palace. The
museum is an excellent place to learn about the people, culture, art and
craft of Ile-Ife.
Ooni’s Palace
A
visit to Ile-Ife is not complete without checking out the magnificent
palace of the Ooni of Ife otherwise known as Ile Oduduwa, named after
the first king of the Yoruba race. The palace is an in-depth reflection
of ancient Ife because the palace existed alongside the city as far back
as 500 BC. It is a perfect symbol of power, authority and pride for all
who trace their heritage to Ile-Ife. Even with the modernization of the
palace, traditional and cultural part of it is still preserved. The
palace is a sacred place where you do not just indiscriminately wander.
The present Ooni of Ife is the 40-year-old Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi,
Ojaja II who recently ascended the throne of his fathers after the
death of Oba Okunade Sijuwade. You can pay homage to the king and will
be warmly welcomed but ensure that you follow proper protocol while at
the palace. The palace is located in Enuwa Area of Ile-Ife.
Where to Sleep
Despite
being an evolving city, the presence of the Ooni’s Palace, the
celebration of the Olojo festival and education environment of the
Obafemi Awolowo University formerly the University of Ife has made many
business minded persons to establish nice hotels in the flourishing
town. Some of these hotels are Kriscourt Hospitality limited, Xela Hotel and Resort, Molak hotel, Abike Guest House Limited and Molak hotel. More of these hotels can be perused and booked on Jovago.com.
Where to Eat
The
people of Ile-Ife are predominantly Yorubas. Do not be surprised if you
see them munching foods you are familiar with in other Southwest
states. Nevertheless, you do not need to worry about where eat when you
are hungry. There bukkas and restaurants where you can satisfy your biting stomach. These restaurants are Eda restaurant, Forks and fingers, captain cook restaurant and sekodun restaurant.
Shopping in Ile-Ife
Obasewa shopping complex, Shop-Right, Mayfair Shopping Complex, and Ipetumodu market are some of the places you can do your shopping in Ile-Ife.
Fun Fact
The
present Ooni of Ile-Ife-Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II is young,
dynamic and handsome. He is in the forefront of uniting the Yoruba
race. He displayed this trait unity when he visited the Alaafin of Oyo.
The last visit of an Ooni to the Alaafin was 79 years ago.
| Ogunfowoke Adeniyi | |
| Travel/Technology Writer | |
| Mobile: +2348090747241 Skype: Sleeksavvy | |
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