osun_osogbo_sacred_grove

osogbo, nigeria

Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, located in Osogbo, Nigeria, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a sacred forest dedicated to Osun, the Yoruba goddess of fertility and water. Spanning 75 hectares, it is one of the last remaining sacred groves in West Africa. The site features shrines, sculptures, and sanctuaries designed by Austrian artist Susanne Wenger, blending nature with spiritual art. The annual Osun-Osogbo Festival (held in August) attracts pilgrims and tourists for rituals, cultural performances, and river blessings. Visitors can explore the Osun River, ancient trees, and Yoruba spiritual heritage. Entry fees start at $5–$10 per person, and the grove is accessible via a 4-hour drive from Lagos.