Kingdom of Benin

1180-1897Eweka I

RegionWest Africa (Nigeria)

Period1180-1897

Founded ByEweka I

About Kingdom of Benin

A kingdom in the forest region of southern Nigeria ruled by the Oba from Benin City. Its city walls and moats were among the largest earthworks ever built. Guilds of artists produced the famous Benin Bronzes. A British punitive expedition captured the city in 1897 and looted thousands of artworks, many now subject to restitution.

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