Palace of the Ooni of Ife
Ààfin Ọọ̀ni Ifẹ̀
The palace of the Ooni, the paramount spiritual leader of the Yoruba, in the center of Ile-Ife. Visitors can tour the courtyards and shrines with a guide.
The Ooni is the traditional ruler of Ile-Ife, regarded by the Yoruba as a direct descendant of their ancestor Oduduwa and as the spiritual leader of the Yoruba world. The palace stands in the city center beside Enuwa Square. Recently rebuilt, it combines a modern palace with traditional courtyards, and it houses memorials to past Ooni and shrines. Grand ceremonies are held here during some festivals, such as the Olojo Festival. Visits must be arranged through palace staff, so dress modestly and observe protocol. The palace is next to the Ife National Museum and within walking distance.
Opening hours
Access arranged through the royal court
Nearby sights
- Olojo Festival
- Moremi Statue of Liberty
- Oduduwa Shrine and Grove
- Ife National Museum
- Oke Mogun
- Opa Oranmiyan (Staff of Oranmiyan)
- Igbo Olokun (Olokun Grove)
- Ori Olokun Roundabout