The Great City of Benin
The African Civilization with Realistic Sculptures and Great Walls
The Edo people of Benin deserve to be remembered as one of the great civilizations of history on the likes of China and Rome, as its art, engineering and culture were nearly unmatched in West African History. From its Antiquity-Esque realistic sculptures to the great walls that surrounded Benin City and the organized urban planning of its cities; Benin was ahead of its time in many aspects of society. As Benin rose to fame due to its riches and art, more enemies sought their wealth. Subsequently, the rise and fall of this unique nation were one of greatness and exploitation.
Rise of the City of Artisans
Since the mysterious Nok Culture in 1500 B.C, the successor civilizations of Nigeria passed down their famed crafting and mining techniques for a millennium until they reached the City of Benin.
Beginning in the 13th Century, the Edo people formed a large city out of numerous villages in Southern Nigeria, and this novel city was united under an “Oba” or “Emperor”. Under the Obas, trade flourished and the crafts made in Benin were prized across Africa and even Europe.
