Oyo State, a region steeped in history and culture, boasts a rich tapestry of historical sites and monuments. From ancient ruins to colonial-era buildings, the state offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Let’s embark on a journey through time and explore some of the most significant historical landmarks in Oyo:
1. Sango Heritage
Located at Koso, Oyo Atiba Local Government. In Yoruba myth, Sango once ruled as the fourth Alaafin of Oyo empire. He was noted for his magical power and feared because when he spoke, fire came out of his mouth. He is believed to be “god of thunder” living in the sky who hurls thunder stones to earth, killing those who offend him or setting their house on fire. He was defied after death. Sango Shrine at Koso is therefore connected structurally to the king’s palace overflow with carvings, ceramics and other artwork. The ancient mud wall was a replica of what was present in the then old Koso at Oyo-Ile before the movement to the present Oyo. Millions of tourists and Sango worshippers visit the Shrine especially during the World Sango Festival in July each year.
2. Alaafin’s Palace
Located at Aafin Oyo, Atiba Local Government. This is Historical/ Cultural and Architectural site. A Yoruba Museum containing many relics and antiquities of the Yoruba race. The palace retained its originality with several court yards, numerous rooms, conference halls (famous Aganju hall, statues and symbols of famous Alaafin, the banner of the god of thunder- (Sango) the talking drum (Dundun and Sekere drums) which announces the arrival and departure of visitors to the Royal Palace. The Palace itself is a masterpiece of ancient architecture.
3. Calabash Carving and Leather Works
Located at Oyo Town, Atiba, Oyo West, Oyo East and Afijo Local Govt. Areas. This Historical/ Cultural site is owned privately. Oyo is the chief town and headquarters of the old Oyo province noted for craftsman who have perfected the art of calabash carving. This is an ancient art handed down from generation to generation. Oyo town offer the tourist the best in exquisitely carved calabashes. Oyo-carved calabashes are priceless gift items and souvenirs high on the list of visitors to the.
4. Ese Oloja Hills
Located at Imini Road, Ilora, Afijio Local Govt. This Ecological site is jointly owned by the Community & Government. They are two hills believe to be couple. The bigger one is refer to as the wife and the small one is refer to as the husband. People use to visit the place to pray.
5. Odo Popo
Located at Ilora, Afijio Local Govt. It is owned by the community
6. Ese-Oloja Hill
Located at Ilora, Afijio Local Govt. It is owned by the community
7. Ifeniyi Hill
Located at Oke Isanmi Area Ilora, Afijio Local Govt This Ecological/Historical site is owned by the community. It is the first settlement of the people of Ilora.
8. Obamako
Located at Ilora, Afijio Local Govt. This Ecological site is owned by the community. For worshipilng
9. Obanako Shrine
Located at Oluwatedo via Ilora, Afijio Local Govt. This Religious/Ecological site is owned by the community. It is a big tree of about 300years. There is a deity living inside the tree which surrounded itself with a chain.
10. Oju Erugbon Shrine
Located at Iora, Afijio Local Govt. It is owned by the community
11. Ayedi Hill
Located at Fiditi, Afijio Local Govt. It is owned by the community
12. Igi Omo
Located at Ilora, Afijio Local Govt. It is owned by the community
13. Ariponpo Sona Iyawo
Located at Ilora, Afijio Local Govt. It is owned by the community
14. Old Oyo National Park
Located at 10 Local Government Areas in Oke Ogun Region of Oyo State. It is a Historical/ Cultural/Ecological site. Old Oyo National Patk came into existence as a result of the merger of erstwhile Oyo-ile Ogun game Reserve in 1991. It is a historic and monumental landmark that cut across 11 Local Government Councils, occupying an area of about 2,572sq kms. The park houses the relics of old oyo Empire (Oyo Ile) and Agbaku cave and reservoir. The park can boast of flora and fauna species and kob, which is the logo of the Old Oyo National Park.
15. Afolarin Hill
Located at Irawo
16. Sogodi Lake
Located at Awe, Afijo Local Govt. This Spiritual/ cultural/ Traditional site is owned by the community. According to local legends, the water lake is said to have some spiritual curative and medicinal properties. Also fishes caught from the lake would not be cooked therefore catching fishes from the lake is totally forbidden.
By visiting these historical sites and monuments, you can gain a deeper appreciation for Oyo State’s rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in ancient civilizations, colonial history, or traditional culture, this region offers something for everyone.
Note: To ensure the preservation of these historical sites, it’s important to visit them responsibly and follow guidelines set by local authorities or Oyo state government.
