The Royal Palace of the Oba of Benin is the most prestigious sites in Benin and one of the top things to see when in Benin City, Edo state. It is one of the most famous Royal Houses in the whole of Africa. The palace, built by Oba Ewedo (1255AD – 1280AD), is situated at the heart of ancient City of Benin. It was rebuilt by Oba Eweka II (1914 – 1932), after the 1897 war during which it was destroyed by the British. The palace was declared a UNESCO Listed Heritage Site in 1999.
1. Whistling:
Whistling is seen as a way for mortals to wake up the dead, so in the Oba’s palace where there are a lot of deities, whistling is seen as a rude act in Benin City, especially at the Palace.
2. Pointing:
Pointing is seen as sacred, an act with deep spiritual for blessing and cursing so pointing fingers at either Oba or his chiefs are not allowed at the Oba’s palace. It is a punishable offence.
3. Using umbrellas:
During festivals, only the Oba of Benin is allowed to use an umbrella, no matter the weather.
4. Wearing black:
Anyone wearing a black attire is not allowed entrance into the palace because black is seen as a symbol for mourning. It is a taboo for the Oba to set his eyes on the colour black.
5. Carrying palm fruits:
The colour red is not allowed near the Oba’s palace at all. Hence, palm kernel in its fruit form, which is as red as blood is considered a bad omen when seen around or in the Oba’s palace.
