Olumo Rock

Olumo Rock is a mountain in south-western Nigeria. It is located in the city of Abeokuta, Ogun State, and was normally used as a natural fortress during inter-tribal warfare in the 19th century. Its patron spirit is venerated in the Yoruba religion as an orisha. The name olumo is the combination of two words: "olu" which means god/deity, and "mo" which means moulded.

Background of Olumo Rock

Olumo's name translates to "troubles and sorrows are everywhere." The history of the rock goes back to the Oyo Empire in the nineteenth century, when the Egba people who lived in Abeokuta sought safety in the Olumo rock amid inter-tribal conflicts. The rock served as both a vantage point to see the enemy's march and a tower of strength for the Egba people in their efforts to protect the new town, ultimately resulting to victory in battle. The rock is a substantial monument created by nature using local resources.

Its advantage as a haven and a shelter is the component of its natural form. The most important example of Egba nationalism is Olumo Rock. It is the unique monument associated with their bravery and independence. Olumo Rock therefore stands for peace and freedom for all Abeokuta citizens, not only the Egbas. In order to advance its status as a top tourist destination in Nigeria, this tourist facility underwent a series of renovations in 2006. As a result, following the refurbishment, amenities such as a brand-new museum, restaurants, a water feature, and an elevator (to make the steep ascent easier) were installe


Olumo Rock Height

Olumo Rock is nearly half as tall as the 300-meter Eiffel Tower in Paris, standing at 137 meters above sea level, as was previously reported. Additionally, Olumo Rock is not comparable in height to Zuma Rock in Abuja, the capital city, which is 725 meters above sea level.

Olumo Rock's ease of climbing, however, is one of its appealing qualities. Before the most recent improvements, Olumo Rock already had stairs cut into it for simple ascent. Elevators or stairs can be used to get to the peak by individuals who don't want to climb through the rocks.

Tourism

Olumo Rock is located in the city of Abeokuta, Ogun State. Historically, the rock was a natural fortress for the Egbas during inter-tribal warfare in the 19th century. It provided protection to the Egba people when they needed it, and is now held in high esteem by the members of the clan. The mountain, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nigeria, sits in the heart of Abeokuta – a name which means “Under the rock” in the Yoruba language. The rock has a height of 137 meters above sea level. Abeokuta was originally inhabited by the Egbas, who the rock provided with sanctuary and gave a vantage point to monitor the enemy’s advance, leading to eventual triumph in war. The town of Abeokuta eventually grew as these new settlers spread out from this location.

Location and popular attractions

Abeokuta is just about an hour drive from the bustling metropolitan city of Lagos, providing convenient access to an array of hotels, restaurants, clubs, casinos and various nightlife activities. Lagos is also home to the closest airport to Abeokuta, the Murtala Muhammed International Airport. Hotels in Abeokuta within a minutes' drive from the rock include Gateway Hotel and Olumo Guest House.

New renovations completed in early 2006 upgraded the infrastructure of the site to include a new museum, restaurants, water fountain and the ancient Itoku market, where local artisans and traders enjoy haggling over prices just as much as the customers like to find a bargain. The market lies just outside the Olumo rock premises. It is the center of the indigenous Abeokuta industry of tie-and-dye, locally known as ''adire''. Adire crafters, usually women both old and young, show off their designs in sheds alongside the roads. Behind these sheds are buildings where many of these crafters live and work and where their parents did before them. In places where the plaster has cracked off the walls, you may see traces of the mud bricks used in the original construction.

The locals are very friendly and if asked, will often give tourists and visitors informal tours of the dyeing areas. Other popular items to watch out for include local beads, bracelets, sculptures and musical instruments like the sekere and talking drum.

A trip to Olumo rock usually commences with a climb up the man-made stairs carved into the rock. The journey continues with climbs on irregularly sized rocks (or ladders which are now provided) through a narrow corridor that leads to the top of the rock. All along the way, catch sights of carvings in the rock, cowrie-studded statues and the ancient abode of the priestesses of the mountain deity who live in huts on the rock. Professional guides are available.

Climbing Advice

If you want to climb the rocks and steps, try donning a pair of fitting pants. As was already said, as long as you are utilizing the artificial stairs or elevators, wearing an agbada would not be a problem.

To climb the rocks, avoid wearing slip-resistant shoes. Since the area became a popular tourist destination, it is reported that no one has ever died while climbing the cliffs. Don't start off first.

Bring a bottle of water with you, either on a side strap or in a small backpack. It will be necessary at the top.

Remember to bring your camera.

References

External links

Official website

{{coord missing, Nigeria

Tourist attractions in Abeokuta
Rock formations in Yorubaland
Rock formations of Nigeria
History of Abeokuta