Sungbo Eredo is a large system of intertwined walls and ditches built in the ancient Benin, western Nigeria. This system of defensive walls and ditches was built somewhere between 800-1000.
Traditional folklore links the construction of this impressive boundary to the legendary Sungbo, a wealthy childless widow,widow, giantess, priestess/goddess, devil,or Queen of Sheba.
These structures testify to the comparatively advanced state of the culture at that time. The total length of these ancient fortifications exceeds 6000 kilometres (very very very long) and their locations still being mapped. Sungbo Eredo could be the largest single archaeological monument in the world.
Although it is a real structure, there are a lot of myths and legends surrounding it. And that is expected it really look like a mythical place
[Here's a video showing the Sungbo Oredo ditch ](
In honor of the queen of Sheba?
Sungbo Oredo is said to have built in the honor of honour of the Oloye Bilikisu Sungbo of Ijebu land.
Locals believe that Bilikisu Sungbo is the Queen of Sheba. And evidence shows that she is African. The Koran mentions her to have lived in Ethiopa. Also, the legendary queen describes herself in the Song of Solomon as "I am black but comely...".. Not really in any way conclusive evidence, I know. But that why they are called Legends.
Spiritual Swamp Demon Fortification?
There is something quite odd about the fortifications. It seem that builders where mainly searching for ground water. They were looking to create swampy bottom. If this the swampy bottom was created even atbas shallow depth, they stopped. This according to some locals explains that Sungbo Oredo is not a military fortification but a spiritual one.
Down in the caves of Sungbo Oredo the atmosphere is intense enough to make you understand why this place is doesn't feel like any ordinary military fortification.
In some places small, conical idol statues had been placed deep down the ditch. Also, there are pieces of red and white clothing at some of the statues.
If you want to learn more about Sungbo Oredo make sure you read this post
http://naijatreks.com/2014/05/sungbo-eredo/
It is a write-up about an expedition to Sungbo Oredo.
Image sources
http://www.cometonigeria.com/wheretogo/sungbo-eredo/.
http://www.cometonigeria.com/wheretogo/sungbo-eredo/
Thanks for reading, see you down in the comments.