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Meridiela.

Obiré Royal Sanctuary

The court of the Gan king near Gaoua, where bronze figures of past rulers are kept.

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Typeroyal sanctuary
WhereSud-Ouest
Nearest cityGaoua
Best seasonNovember to February
Time to allowTwo hours
Getting thereNear Gaoua in the southwest; track from the road, guided
EntryEntry fee; guided, permission required

At Obiré near Gaoua the Gan people keep a royal court whose line of kings is counted back over many generations, and within the sanctuary a set of bronze figures represents past rulers, each cast when its subject died and kept together in a sacred enclosure. Visits are led by court officials, parts of the ground are closed, and photography is restricted. It is a functioning institution rather than a monument.

What you actually see

  • The bronze figures - the cast representations of past kings kept together.
  • The sacred enclosure - the ground the figures are held in.
  • The royal line - a kingship counted back over many generations.
  • The court officials - the people who lead visits and control access.

When to go

November to February is the cool dry season. Visits must be arranged and depend on the court. March to May is extremely hot.

Honest expectations

Access is controlled by the court and parts are closed to outsiders entirely. Photography is restricted and permission must be asked. Fees are set on the day and can be substantial.

Nearby

Gaoua is east, and the Ruins of Loropéni are north.

What to pack for Obiré Royal Sanctuary

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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