Dahomey Amazons Memorial | Ouidah

Information

Landmark: Dahomey Amazons Memorial
City: Ouidah
Country: Benin
Continent: Africa

Dahomey Amazons Memorial, Ouidah, Benin, Africa

The Dahomey Amazons Memorial is a monument located in Ouidah, Benin. It commemorates the all-female military regiment of the Kingdom of Dahomey.

Visual Characteristics

The memorial features a central bronze statue depicting a female warrior in traditional attire, holding a rifle. The statue stands on a concrete pedestal. Surrounding the pedestal are several stone pillars, each inscribed with names and dates. The overall color palette is dominated by the bronze of the statue and the grey of the stone and concrete.

Location & Access Logistics

The memorial is situated on the Route des Esclaves (Slave Route) in Ouidah. It is approximately 2 kilometers south of the Ouidah city center. Access is via paved road. Parking is available on the side of the road adjacent to the memorial. No specific public transport routes directly serve the memorial; visitors typically arrive by private vehicle or taxi from Ouidah.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The memorial was erected to honor the Agojie, the female warriors of the Kingdom of Dahomey, who existed from the 17th century until the end of the 19th century. The specific construction date is not widely documented, but it is a modern memorial. The site itself is a historical route associated with the transatlantic slave trade.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the central statue and read the inscriptions on the surrounding pillars. The memorial serves as a point of reflection on the history of the Agojie and their role in Dahomeyan society. Photography of the monument is permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There are no dedicated restrooms or food vendors at the immediate site of the memorial. Shade is limited, primarily provided by sparse trees along the roadside. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in this area of Ouidah.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is during the morning or late afternoon when the sun's angle provides optimal lighting on the bronze statue. The weather in Ouidah is generally warm and humid year-round, with a distinct rainy season from May to October. Dry seasons (November to April) offer more consistent weather for outdoor visits.

Facts & Legends

A specific legend associated with the Agojie is their supposed use of human skulls as trophies, though historical accounts vary on the extent of this practice. A practical tip for visitors is to wear comfortable footwear, as the memorial is located along the Route des Esclaves, which can be explored on foot.