Heritage with Related Tags
Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove
The Sacred Grove of Osun, on the outskirts of Osogbo, is one of the last remaining pristine highland forests in southern Nigeria. The grove is considered the abode of the fertility goddess Osun, one of the Yoruba gods. Temples, shrines, sculptures and artworks are scattered around the grove and its winding river in honor of Osun and other deities. The grove is now considered a symbol of identity for all Yoruba people and is probably the last sacred grove in Yoruba culture. It bears witness to the once widespread custom of establishing a sacred grove outside all settlements.
Dholavira: a Harappan City
The ancient city of Dholavira is the southern center of the Harappan civilization, located on the arid island of Kadir in Gujarat. The archaeological site, built between 3000-1500 BC, is one of the best-preserved urban settlements in Southeast Asia and consists of a fortified city and a cemetery. Two seasonal streams provided water to the walled city, a scarce resource in the region, and within the walls was a heavily fortified citadel and ceremonial grounds, with streets and houses of varying proportions and quality, testifying to the social order of the time. The complex water management system demonstrates the wisdom of the Dholavira people in surviving and thriving in a harsh environment. The site includes a large cemetery with six types of monuments, testifying to the unique Harappan view of death. Archaeologists have discovered bead-making workshops and a variety of crafts such as copper, shell, stone, semi-precious gemstone jewelry, clay, gold, ivory and other materials during excavations at the site, demonstrating the artistic and technological achievements of the culture. Evidence of inter-regional trade with other Harappan cities as well as cities in the Mesopotamian region and the Omani peninsula has also been found.