The motto of Benin is “Fraternity, Justice, Work.” This motto is more than just a saying. It hearkens back to the deep roots of this country built upon a combined Brazilian, African, and European heritage. This diversity is reflected in our cultural heritage, an integration of spiritual and religious beliefs and traditions in song and dance.
Among these traditions, one must not forget the history of Ouidah, a landmark city in Benin’s past on account of its role in the slave trade throughout the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, and known today as the world’s Voodoo capital.
