Osun-Osogbo Grove, Sacred grove in Osogbo, Nigeria

Osun-Osogbo Grove is a sacred forest on the banks of the Osun River just outside Osogbo, Osun State, Nigeria. It is among the last of the sacred forests that once bordered most Yoruba cities before extensive urbanisation. Its shrines and artworks stand among tall trees, and carved wooden posts topped with human figures support the roof edge of one shrine building, whose walls of rough light-brown earth are pierced by rounded openings.

The grove grew from ancient Yoruba traditions but fell into decline during the 1900s. An Austrian artist helped restore and protect the site starting in the 1950s, reviving traditional practices and artistic expression.

The grove takes its name from Osun, the river goddess who, tradition says, appeared to the hunter Olutimehin and asked him to lead his people to the site of present-day Osogbo. Each August the two-week Osun-Osogbo Festival opens with Iwopopo, the cleansing of the town, followed three days later by the lighting of Ina Olojumerindinlogun, a sixteen-point lamp said to be 500 years old. The Iboriade assembles the crowns of past Ataojas for blessing, and the procession to the shrine is led by the Arugba, a young woman of kingly lineage who carries the sacrificial calabash.

Visitors can explore the area during daylight hours with local guides, and wearing sturdy shoes and light clothing helps due to moisture and vegetation. The annual August festival brings special visiting rules and limited access times that visitors should plan around.

Each year the festival is led by a woman from royal lineage who carries ritual gifts along secret paths through the forest. This tradition represents a living link between royal lineage and spiritual practice.