History of Ouidah

A few dates to understand the town.

Landmarks

1721
The Portuguese fort
The Portuguese build the fort of São João Baptista de Ajudá. Ouidah is then at the heart of the Atlantic slave trade.
Photo: Bencas1, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
1903 – 1909
The basilica
The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception is built, opposite the Python Temple.
Photo: Fawaz.tairou, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
1967
The museum
On 6 September, the fort becomes the Ouidah History Museum.
1993
Ouidah 92
The Ouidah 92 festival is held in February; the sculptures of the Kpassè forest are installed for the occasion. The Tree of Forgetfulness had been replanted the year before.
Photo: Rachad sanoussi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
1995
The Door of No Return
On 30 November, the Door of No Return is inaugurated on the beach, during the International Year for Tolerance.
Photo: Chiemelacebelae, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
2024
Vodun Days
On 9 and 10 January, the first Vodun Days are held in Ouidah.
Photo: Eureka9090, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons