If you were moved by the fierce warrior women in The Woman King or the Dora Milaje in Black Panther, you’re not alone. These cinematic portrayals were inspired by the real-life history of the all-female military regiment of the Dahomey Kingdom in present-day Benin. Now, thanks to a major cultural restoration project, fans and history lovers may soon walk through the very palace where these formidable women once lived and trained.
The government of Benin Republic has announced an ambitious plan to restore and expand the historic royal palace of Abomey, which will become home to a Museum of the Epic of the Amazons and Kings of Dahomey.
A £29 million revival of Benin’s royal history
With backing from the French Development Agency (AFD) to the tune of £29 million, the project is set to unfold over the next four years. The palace complex, originally constructed in 1943, will be transformed into a world-class heritage site.
The site will include modern amenities for tourists and researchers alike, all designed according to international standards for conservation and cultural preservation. With technical support from Expertise France, the museum will be equipped with climate-controlled spaces, high-end exhibitions, and dynamic cultural programming. The goal is to make it a leading destination in Africa for both education and tourism.
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Restoring history and reclaiming pride
This initiative is part of a broader collaboration between Benin and France, tied to ongoing efforts to return looted artefacts and restore cultural dignity to former colonies. It represents a new era of cultural sovereignty for Benin, where the country regains physical pieces of its history and takes control of how that history is told.
To ensure long-term sustainability, the project includes capacity-building programmes that will empower local museum staff and cultural professionals. These efforts will help Benin manage its cultural heritage independently and set an example for heritage conservation across the continent.
Who were the Dahomey Amazons?
Known locally as the Agojie, the Amazons of Dahomey were a fierce all-women military unit that served as the backbone of the royal army for over 200 years. Recruited from a young age and trained in combat, discipline, and loyalty, these women protected the kingdom against external threats and internal rebellions. They were unmatched in strength and bravery, and their legacy continues to inspire today.
The kings of Dahomey, equally influential, led one of West Africa’s most powerful empires from the 17th to the 19th centuries. By restoring the palace and sharing these stories, the museum will offer a unique window into pre-colonial African greatness.
For Benin, the site is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and stimulate local economies. For Africa, it’s a reminder of the rich and complex histories that deserve global attention.
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