Porto-Novo, Capital city in Ouémé Department, Benin.
Porto-Novo is the capital of Benin in Ouémé Department in the southeast and sits along a coastal lagoon. The city spreads across a wide area with government offices, residential neighborhoods, and open-air markets that shape daily life.
Portuguese traders founded the port in the 1730s and developed it into an important trading post on the West African coast. The city later became part of the Kingdom of Dahomey and came under French influence in the 19th century.
The name Porto-Novo comes from Portuguese and means „New Port
Shared taxis and motorcycle taxis connect different parts of the city and run to neighboring towns along the coast. Most public buildings and markets open during the day, while city life slows down after dark.
Musicians perform Adjogan music with the traditional alounloun instrument at Catholic services and royal ceremonies. This musical tradition connects religious and secular occasions for several centuries.
Location: Ouémé Department
Elevation above the sea: 38 m
Website: https://villedeportonovo.com
GPS coordinates: 6.49907,2.62534
Latest update: December 4, 2025 23:41
Central mosque of Porto-Novo
3.2 km
Royal Palace Museum
3.3 km
National Library of Benin
2.6 km
Jardin des plantes et de la nature
3 km
Musée Da-Silva
3.2 km
Alexandre Sènou Adandé Ethnographic Museum
3 km
Ouando Market
1.8 km
Porto-Novo bridge
4.2 km
Musée des masques d'Adjarra
5 km
Central Mosque of Ouando
2.5 km
Cathedrale Notre Dame de l'Immaculée Conception in Porto-Novo
3 km
Place Toffa
2.9 km
Terrain Polyvalent Site Nouveau
3.5 km
Place Tizaght
3.5 km
Espace Ubuntu
3 km
Temple des Zangbétô
3.2 km
Brigade Territoriale D'ADJARRA
3.4 km
Aux enfants du Bénin morts pour la liberté
3 km
Monument
1.8 km
Kandévié Radio xôkon
1.7 km
Centre d'aide au personnes Handicapés
3.8 km
Arrondissement de HONVIÉ
3.7 km
Monument aux morts
5.4 km
Memorial
2.1 km
Memorial
3.5 km
Memorial
3.5 km
Palais Royal D'adjarra
5.3 km
Maison royale
4.7 kmReviews
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes