Overview:

Iga Idunganran is an old palace, in present-day Lagos State, Nigeria, located on Lagos Island. It was built around 1845 by Oba Kosoko of Lagos, as the ruling palace of the city. Iga Idunganran is now a designated National Monument and World Heritage Site, protected by the Nigerian Federal Government. It is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Lagos Island and is a popular landmark, representing the rich cultural history of the city. Iga Idunganran is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Lagos, offering people the chance to explore the palace, as well as enjoy views of the lagoon. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Nigeria
Prominent Features:

1. Iga Idunganran: The Iga Idunganran was originally built in the mid-1800s as the palace of Oba Akitoye, the ruler of Lagos Island at the time. It is a popular site for visitors, with its high walls and grandiose old-style architecture. The inner compound of the palace houses the Oba’s king’s residence, throne room, assembly hall, and living quarters for the ruler and his family. 2. Lagos State: Lagos is the most populous state in Nigeria with an estimated population of 17.3 million people. It is the 5th most populous country in Africa; making it a great destination for sightseeing, shopping, festivals, and more. As Nigeria’s economic, commercial, and cultural hub, it is one of the most important states to visit in the country. 3. Lagos Island: Located within Lagos State, Lagos Island is a small area located in the heart of the city, just off the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. It is a popular tourist destination with its colorful streets and heritage sites, including Oba’s Palace and the National Museum of Nigerians, among others. The small island is also home to some of the country’s most notable institutions, such as the National Theatre, Nigeria’s tallest building-iekeon Tower, and the Nigerian Stock Exchange. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Nigeria.

History:

Iga Idunganran is the oldest palace in Lagos, located on the island of Lagos on Lagos Lagoon. Historically, it is believed to be established by Awo-Olofin, Oba of Lagos, when he moved his court from Eko (old Lagos) to Lagos Island in the 15th century. The palace is a testament to the royalty, prestige and position that Lagos has held in Nigeria and West Africa. It stands as a symbol of traditional authority in the city and is where Lagos’ Obas have continued to live since the move to Lagos Island in the 15th Century. Iga Idunganran palace has a rich history, with many of its past inhabitants now considered legends or kings in Nigerian history. These include Oba Akintoye, Oba Kosoko, Oba Diodolu and Oba Dosunmu. The palace has served as the seat of political power in Lagos since the air, providing a setting for the Oba of Lagos to exercise their political authority in Lagos and beyond. The palace is a center of cultural heritage, with many annual ceremonies taking place at Iga Idunganran. These include the annual Onimole ceremony, which marks the start of the New Year celebrations; the Oluomo and Kosu festivals, celebrating the commercial success of traders and fishermen; and the Eyo Festival, which honors the ancestral spirits. Today, Iga Idunganran still retains much of its historical significance, as it is still the official residence of the Obas of Lagos. It is currently open to the public and is a popular tourist destination due to its rich cultural heritage and legacy. Visit one of the famous monuments of Nigeria with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Iga Idunganran was built in the late 1800s by Oba Akitoye, the great-great grandfather of the current Oba of Lagos, Akiolu I. 2. The palace was originally constructed in the traditional Yoruba architectural style of mud and wood with thatched roofs. 3. It served as the primary residence of the oba and his court until 1897 when the palace was destroyed during a British attack on Lagos Island. 4. The current palace was rebuilt in the mid-20th century in a modernization of the traditional architecture, complete with pillars and a spacious courtyard. 5. The palace is home to the Oba’s council chamber, where important official meetings are held, and the Sacred Grove, where religious practices and customs are carried out. 6. The palace is open to members of the public, and contains various artifacts showcasing the Yoruba culture as well as the history of the Oba’s dynasty. 7. Iga Idunganran is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its unique representation of the traditional Yoruba architecture. One of the historical monuments of Nigeria, it tells the story of a bygone era