The State of the Living Spring
History
According to Yoruba tradition, Ile-Ife in Osun State is where the world’s creation began, orchestrated by Olodumare.
This place symbolizes life’s start, the origin of civilization, and everything we experience. For the Yoruba people, whether in their homeland or elsewhere, Osun is their ancestral abode.
Osun is a state located in western Nigeria. It was formed in 1991 from the eastern part of Oyo state. It shares borders with Kwara to the northeast, Ekiti and Ondo to the east, Ogun to the south, and Oyo to the west and northwest.
Osun state is inhabited mainly by the Yoruba people.It is said that he state derived its name from the Osun river, one of the most recognized grooves in the world, said to have the manifestation of the Yoruba goddess.
Osun carries the story of a people who fought for freedom, self-realization, determination, and a brighter future. Their struggle led to the creation of Osun, a dream realized and hope fulfilled.
Economy
Osun’s economy primarily relies on farming. Key crops are yams, cassava, corn, beans, millet, plantains, cocoa, palm products, and fruits. There are also small industries making brass items, woven fabrics, and wood carvings. Oshogbo, the capital, has a textile industry, food processing, and a steel-rolling mill.
Cultural Heritage
Osun-Osogbo Festival
The festival of Osun-Osogbo, celebrates the goddess of fertility, Osun, one of the Yoruba traditional deities.
Anually, people from across the globe, both believers and non-believers journey to the Osun-Osogbo festival in August. Attendees come from various nations, including Brazil, Cuba, and other American countries.
Tourist Attractions
The State of Osun is home to a lot of tourist attractions based on its rich history and the cultural base of the Yoruba.
Notable attractions include the Mbari Arts Centre in Oshogbo, the royal palaces in Ilesha and Ile-Ife, and the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove. This forest holds shrines and artwork dedicated to the Yoruba deity Osun, and it’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2005.
ORISUN 2023!
Would you like to explore Nigeria’s culture, food, and social life in a safe and curated trip?
Last year we had our first Orisun trip to Lagos, Nigeria and this year we will be holding another trip.
Click here for more info!
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