The Temple of Pythons
For centuries, the Temple of Pythons has held a central place in the Vodun traditions of Ouidah, the historic birthplace of this ancestral religion. Far more than a visitor attraction, it remains a sanctuary where ceremonies, rites and beliefs continue to be practiced, testifying to a spiritual heritage still very much alive.
The temple is home to royal pythons, a non-venomous species considered sacred in local tradition. Every year, worshippers, researchers and visitors from around the world come to discover one of Benin’s most iconic cultural expressions, deeply rooted in its identity and history.
The Temple of Pythons in Ouidah: one of the world's most iconic Vodun sanctuaries, where Benin's spiritual traditions have endured for centuries. Hours, practical info, location.
How to visit
Accompanied by a guide, discover the world of Vodun through the history of the sanctuary, the symbols that make it up, and the traditions still celebrated there. The visit offers deeper insight into a religion deeply rooted in Beninese culture and still practiced today.
Opening hours