I went on a weekend trip to Osogbo. Osogbo is a city in Osun state located about 225km NE of Lagos state. Osogbo also turns out to be my birth town. I have never stepped in Osogbo since birth and as such this trip had more significance to me than others. I was stunned by how much heritage Osogbo had and wanted to share that with you all with the hope that one day, you will visit too.
DAY 1: DRIVE TO OSOGBO (WITH A SHORT BREAK AT IBADAN) – VISIT LOCAL BLACK SOAP/PALM OIL/CASSAVA PROCESSING FACTORY – VISIT AN OBA’S (A KINGS) PALACE
After receiving a black making soap process tour from this amazing woman, we bantered together in my local dialect “Yoruba”.
Watching the palm oil processing process
At the cassava-processing (a.k.a garri making) plant.
We had the pleasure to attend the 10th anniversary of the Oba of Ido Osun at his palace and his appointing of a Chieftaincy.
Post the chieftaincy ceremony
DAY 2: VISIT UNESCO HERITAGE SITE “OSUN GROOVES” – VISIT SUSANNE WENGER’S HOUSE – NIKE’S ART GALLERY
The visitor centre at the UNESCO Heritage site “Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove”
A meeting place at Osun Grove
Standing by one of the amazing sculptures by Susanne Wenger and other artists mentored by her. Stay tuned for my full write up on this beautiful heritage site (VLOG of my trip also coming up soon)
At the home of Susan Wenger, An austrian artist and a priestess.
Some of the art collection by Susanne Wenger and artists she mentored at her home.
Nike Art Gallery, Osogbo
A visit to Nike’s Art Gallery in Osogbo. Chief Nike is one of Nigerias internationally known and renowned female designers and artist.
More art at Nike’s Art Gallery
Fashion at Nike’s art gallery
WHERE I STAYED: NIKE’S GUEST HOUSE
See here for my full review of my stay at Nike’s guest house
What did I like: Unearthing gems in Osogbo. The tour of the UNESCO site by a very knowledgeable tour guide was enlightening. My stay at Nike’s guest house was also memorable. The guest house’s garden (home to a tortoise) was nothing short of stunning. The visit to the Oba’s house was memorable as we were serenading with musicians and dancers.
What didn’t I like: I wish the local processing plants (i.e. for soap, palm oil) were more formally organised in a co-op for the benefit of those these.
What would I change: Nothing, absolutely nothing
What did you think about my write-up? Hope you enjoyed it. And if you have suggestions of what you would like for me to write on, let me know x
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