Overview:

is a cultural heritage building of great significance located in the heart of Akure, the ancient capital of Ondo state, which is believed to be one of the oldest kingdoms in Nigeria. The complex was built in the16th century and has been a site of tremendous cultural and social relevance in Akure. One of its most striking features is its wooden gate, measuring 40ft by 46ft, which is adorned with intricate carvings and symbols. Inside the walls of the Old Palace, which are 4.7m wide, consists of 20 courtyards, three museums, two schools of thought, several secret shrines, an open-air auditorium or "talk-house", a queen's palace, and the famous Deji Of Akure Shrine. It is a royal palace fit for kings and is still often used for important religious functions and traditional ceremonies. The structure blends traditional art forms such as painting, sculpture and architecture with contemporary design. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Nigeria
Prominent Features:

1. Built in 1845, the Old Palace of the Deji is a paramount palace located in Akure, the capital city of Ondo State in Nigeria. 2. It is one of the oldest standing palaces in the region and the largest in Akure. 3. The palace is a majestic symbol of Yoruba architecture, with its traditional features such as intricate door frames and vibrant colors. 4. It is home to His Royal Majesty Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi. 5. The palace is also home to the annual Ondo State Festival of Arts and Culture. 6. It is surrounded by a glorious garden filled with tall palm trees and picturesque flowers. 7. The surrounding perimeters form a symbol of status and royalty within the town, and outside visitors are often awe-struck by its grandeur. 8. The palace is a popular tourist destination, located near several commercial districts. 9. It is easy to access from the Akure Airport, the main bus station and other transportation points. 10. The palace also serves as a gallery for traditional artefacts, jewellery, and stories from Ondo's rich cultural heritage. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Nigeria.

History:

The Old Palace of the Deji of Akure, Ondo State in Nigeria, is a 500-year-old palace which was first constructed by the Olomu ruling family. According to oral tradition, the Olomu dynasty was the first family to settle in Akure and bring monarchy to the city. The family originally belonged to the Kukuruku ethnic group from Benin, but later moved to the Akure area in the mid-17th century to establish a kingdom. The Old Palace was built between the 16th and 17th centuries as an extension of the first palace built by the Olomu ruling family. It is set over a sprawling expanse of land in the heart of Akure, which includes the Royal Mausoleum, the ancient groves of Irubor and the courtyards and chambers of the royal palace. The palace is itself a fortified structure with thick mud walls and pointed rooftops. It is beautifully decorated in traditional Nigerian art and architecture. The palace has served as a home for the Deji of Akure for centuries and was home to the powerful kings who shaped the destiny of this ancient city. It was a place for ceremonies, feasts and other royal activities. It has also been a repository and protector of many of the city's historical and cultural artifacts. Today, the palace is a popular tourist attraction. The palace grounds are open to the public and guided tours are available. Inside, visitors can view the courtyards and chambers of the royal palace, learn about the history of the Deji of Akure, and enjoy the beauty and richness of the palace's interior design. Visit one of the famous monuments of Nigeria with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Old Palace of the Deji of Akure, Ondo State in Nigeria is one of the oldest inhabitant palaces in Nigeria, believed to have been built more than 2000 years ago. 2. The Old Palace of the Deji is a protected monument as it is known for its rich cultural and historical significance. 3. Every Saturday, a traditional ceremony is observed at the palace, as homage is paid to the deities of the kingdom for protecting the deji and his people. 4. The palace is also known for its spectacular architecture, decorated with various ornaments and symbols on the walls. 5. The palace consists of over 30 courtyards, where members of the royal family reside. 6. The unique features of the palace make it a popular tourist destination and has been featured in numerous movies across Africa. One of the historical monuments of Nigeria, it tells the story of a bygone era