Vol 4 Ep 94 - Ifẹ and Benin

About this episode

This episode explores the legacies of the Ifẹ and Benin kingdoms in West Africa, focusing on their artistic and political significance.

1000 BCE - 1897 CE - Two kingdoms, two legacies—Ifẹ and Benin shaped West Africa’s artistic soul and political power. From sacred bronze heads to sprawling palace complexes, this episode dives into the myths, monarchs, and masterworks that defined a civilisation. Discover how divine ancestry and dynastic ambition forged two of Africa’s greatest city-states. The past isn’t buried—it’s cast in bronze.

People in this episode

Host: Chris Hasler

Topics covered

• West Africa
• artistic legacy
• political power
• myths
• monarchs
• city-states

Keywords

• Ifẹ
• Benin
• West Africa
• bronze heads
• palace complexes
• dynastic ambition
• city-states

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: sacred bronze heads, sprawling palace complexes

Places: Ifẹ, Benin

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