That was down to the Oba of the Kingdom of Benin, who was a great patron of artisans.

Think for a moment about how culture has shaped the places we know and travel to.

Scotland has embedded tweed into its national identity.

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The Holy Cross Cathedral in Benin City, Nigeria.

A grand example is the citys Museum of Black Civilisations.

The Mix Design Hub in Accra.

Insider recommendations

Stay:For writer and curatorEkow Eshun, Accras rusticLa Villa Boutiqueis a must.

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The Rainforest Gallery, part of the Museum of West African Art’s “creative district”, which opens in Benin City, Nigeria, later this year.

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The Mix Design Hub in Accra.