The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is one of Nigeria's two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, located along the Osun River in Osogbo. This 75-hectare forest is the last remnant of primary high forest in southern Nigeria and has been sacred to the Yoruba people for centuries. The grove houses shrines, sculptures, and art works honoring Osun, the Yoruba goddess of fertility. Austrian artist Susanne Wenger and local artisans created numerous sculptures and structures that blend traditional and contemporary art. The annual Osun-Osogbo Festival attracts thousands of worshippers and tourists. The grove represents the Yoruba' relationship with nature and spirituality, preserving ancient traditions and biodiversity.


SACRED SANCTUARY:
The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove preserves 75 hectares of primary rainforest dedicated to Osun, Yoruba goddess of fertility, water, and healing. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, it is one of the last surviving sacred groves in southern Nigeria.

ART AND SPIRITUALITY:
Austrian artist Susanne Wenger (Adunni Olorisha) collaborated with local artisans to create monumental sculptures, shrines, and archways blending modernist forms with Yoruba cosmology. Annual rituals honour Osun, led by the Arugba maiden and priestesses.

BIODIVERSITY REFUGE:
The grove shelters rare species of monkeys, antelopes, and medicinal plants. Conservationists monitor biodiversity, manage invasive species, and maintain sacred pools where devotees perform cleansing rites.

CULTURAL CONTINUITY:
The two-week Osun-Osogbo Festival attracts pilgrims, tourists, and diaspora communities. Workshops teach batik, pottery, and drumming, ensuring cultural skills pass to new generations.

FAST FACTS:
- Location: Outskirts of Osogbo, Osun State.
- Protected by: National Commission for Museums and Monuments, Osun State Government, and Ataoja of Osogbo.
- Key features: Osun River, Busanyin Shrine, Baba Oja market, Susanne Wenger’s sculptures.
- Visiting tips: guided tours required; photography restricted in sacred areas.