Abomey Appliqué Workshops
Ateliers de tentures appliquées
A street of craftsmen by the palace gate, keeping alive the colourful appliqué hangings that once commemorated kings; you can watch artisans sew and buy their work.
Appliqué tapestries (tenture appliquée) were a Dahomey court art, originally made by hereditary artisans such as the Yemi family, who sewed hangings, parasols and banners for the king. They used coloured cloth cut into lions, sharks, buffaloes and other royal emblems to tell history. Today the workshops are concentrated near the entrance of the History Museum and on several streets in town. Artisans sew on the spot and sell tapestries, tablecloths, hats and other souvenirs, and prices are negotiable. Before buying, look at the kings' totems in the museum so you can choose pieces with more meaning.
Opening hours
Daytime
Nearby sights
- Royal Palaces of Abomey & Historical Museum
- Houndjro Market
- Zomadonou Vodun Temple
- Palace of King Agonglo
- Palace of King Akaba
- Place Goho & Statue of King Béhanzin
- Bohicon Market
- Agongointo-Zoungoudo Underground Village