Porto-Novo: Benin's Historic Capital with a Dual Identity
Porto-Novo, meaning "New Port" in Portuguese, is the official capital of Benin, though the larger city of Cotonou serves as the nation's primary economic and administrative hub. Originally known as Ajashe by the Yoruba people, the city was established by the Portuguese in 1730 as a crucial port for the transatlantic slave trade. Following British bombardment, Porto-Novo accepted French protection in 1863, eventually becoming the capital of French Dahomey by 1900.
After Benin gained independence in 1960, Porto-Novo retained its status as the official capital where the national legislature sits, despite most government departments operating from Cotonou. Its rich history is reflected in its vibrant cultural heritage, influenced by its Yoruba origins and the distinct Brazilian architecture brought by returning Afro-Brazilians after their emancipation, contributing to a unique urban landscape.