The Yoruba people and their timeless cultural heritage.

From ancient cities and sculptures to unique beliefs, Yoruba culture has had a profound influence on Africa and the globe over time.

One of the most populous ethnic groups in Africa, the Yoruba currently number over 40 million, primarily residing in southwestern Nigeria, but also present in Benin and Togo. Their large population size allows Yoruba culture to spread widely throughout West Africa. Photo: Pinterest.

Urban civilization developed early. Thousands of years ago, the Yoruba people built large city-states such as Ife, Oyo, and Ijebu with well-structured administrative, military , and commercial systems. These cities demonstrate a high level of social organization, contrasting with the common perception of pre-colonial Africa as being "backward." Photo: Pinterest.

The art of masks and sculpture is renowned. Yoruba art, particularly wooden masks and bronze statues, is highly valued for its symbolism and exquisite technique. Many works influenced Western modern art in the early 20th century. Photo: Pinterest.

The Yoruba people have a rich polytheistic belief system. They worship the supreme god Olodumare along with hundreds of intermediate deities called Orisha, representing natural forces and moral values. This belief system profoundly influences the community's life, festivals, and art. Photo: Pinterest.

Ile-Ife – the sacred cradle of the Yoruba people. Ile-Ife is considered the origin of humankind in Yoruba mythology and is the most important spiritual center. Photo: Pinterest.

The Ifá divination system is unique. Ifá is a traditional divination and knowledge system of the Yoruba people, combining poetry, philosophy, and ethics. UNESCO has recognized Ifá as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Photo: Pinterest.

Global influence extended to the Americas. During the transatlantic slave trade, the Yoruba were brought to the Americas, where Orisha beliefs blended with Christianity, giving rise to religions such as Santería in Cuba and Candomblé in Brazil. Photo: Pinterest.

Enduring cultural identity in modern society. Despite the impacts of urbanization and globalization, the Yoruba people have preserved their language, festivals, and traditional community structures, creating a rare cultural continuity. Photo: Pinterest.

We invite our readers to watch the video : The Origins of Civilization / VTV2

Source: https://khoahocdoisong.vn/nguoi-yoruba-va-di-san-van-hoa-vuot-thoi-gian-post2149083903.html