Empire of Ife: The Cradle of Yoruba Culture and the Kingdom of Sculptors

The origins of Ife are deeply rooted in mythology, oral traditions, and historical accounts, making it one of the most revered ancient cities in West Africa. Ife is often referred to as the cradle of the Yoruba civilization, a place where culture, religion, and governance took form. The story of its beginning is intertwined with Yoruba cosmology, particularly the legend of Oduduwa, who is considered the progenitor of the Yoruba people.

According to Yoruba mythology, Olodumare, the Supreme Being, entrusted Oduduwa with the sacred task of creating the earth. He descended from the heavens with a chain, a handful of earth, and a rooster. Upon reaching the watery expanse that covered the world, he spread the earth on the surface, and the rooster scattered it, forming the first landmass. This sacred land became known as Ile-Ife, meaning “The Land of Expansion.” Over time, Oduduwa and his followers established a kingdom that became the center of Yoruba civilization, laying the foundation for its political, spiritual, and artistic traditions.

Beyond mythology, historical and archaeological evidence suggests that Ife was already a flourishing city-state by the 9th century, possibly earlier. It grew as a hub of trade, attracting merchants and artisans from different parts of West Africa. Its strategic location allowed for the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultural practices, contributing to the city’s rapid development. The city’s early rulers, often referred to as the Oonis, played a crucial role in consolidating power and maintaining the harmony between religious and political institutions. The Ooni of Ife, regarded as both a king and a divine figure, acted as the intermediary between the people and the gods, reinforcing Ife’s status as a sacred city.