While the Great Wall of China is often celebrated as one of the most impressive man-made structures in the world, few people are aware that an even larger structure once existed in Africa—The Great Wall of Benin, also known as “IA” or The Great Wall of Africa. This monumental earthwork, built by the Edo people of the Kingdom of Benin (modern-day southern Nigeria), extended nearly 10,000 miles, longer than the perimeter of the United States. Despite its scale and significance, the Wall of Benin remains largely forgotten in the global conversation about historical engineering marvels.
A Massive Engineering Feat
The Wall of Benin was not a single continuous wall but a complex system of earth ramparts, moats, and fortifications surrounding Benin City and its surrounding territories. The structure, ranging in height from 3 to 20 meters, enclosed an estimated area of 2,500 square miles, with portions of the wall extending above treetops. The scale of this earthwork was staggering: it required an estimated 9.1 billion cubic feet of material, took more than 150 million man-hours to build, and spanned over 800 years of construction.
Like the Great Wall of China, Benin’s earthworks were constructed using indigenous methods, relying on local materials and human labor. The walls were primarily made of packed earth and included deep moats designed to protect the Kingdom from invaders. The ingenuity and sheer effort required to build such a structure are a testament to the engineering skills and organization of ancient African civilizations.
Cultural and Strategic Significance
For the people of the Kingdom of Benin, the Wall of Benin was much more than a military defense; it was a symbol of the kingdom’s power, organization, and ingenuity. The walls helped protect the capital, Benin City, and its surrounding territories from outside invasions, ensuring the kingdom’s dominance in the region. At its height, the Kingdom of Benin was a powerful and highly organized empire, known for its sophisticated urban planning, impressive art (such as the famous Benin Bronzes), and its trading relationships with European powers.
The wall also played a significant role in regulating trade and commerce. By marking the boundaries of the kingdom, the Wall of Benin helped control the movement of goods and people, contributing to the prosperity of the kingdom.
A Forgotten Wonder
Despite its grandeur, the Wall of Benin has been largely forgotten in global history. Colonialism and the British invasion of Benin City in 1897 resulted in the destruction of much of the wall and the looting of the kingdom’s cultural treasures. British forces burned the city and looted its famous bronze artworks, leaving much of the wall in ruins.
Additionally, colonial narratives often downplayed the achievements of African civilizations, focusing instead on the accomplishments of European empires. As a result, the Wall of Benin has been overlooked in historical records and educational systems, both in Africa and globally.
The Legacy of the Great Wall of Benin
Though much of the Wall of Benin has been lost, its legacy endures in the oral histories, traditions, and pride of the Edo people and Nigerians at large. Today, efforts are being made to preserve and highlight this forgotten wonder. Archaeologists and historians are working to document and study the remnants of the wall, bringing greater attention to the architectural and engineering feats of pre-colonial Africa.
The Wall of Benin serves as a powerful reminder of the capabilities and achievements of ancient African civilizations. Its story challenges stereotypes about Africa’s past and reveals the continent’s rich history of innovation, culture, and resilience.
Conclusion: Reclaiming Africa’s Historical Marvels
The Great Wall of Benin, though less well-known than other global landmarks, stands as a monument to human perseverance, ingenuity, and cultural achievement. With modern efforts to document and preserve its history, the world is slowly beginning to recognize the significance of this forgotten wonder. As we continue to explore Africa’s rich and diverse heritage, it becomes clear that the achievements of ancient civilizations, such as the Kingdom of Benin, deserve their rightful place in the global narrative of history.
