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West AfricaAfrica

Ife Empire

c. 1000 – 1420 CE · about 420 years approximate dates

Ife was the first Yoruba kingdom, in what is now south-western Nigeria, regarded in Yoruba tradition as the place where the world was created. Its classical period is known for naturalistic bronze and terracotta heads. Its political power declined in the 15th century, though it remained a spiritual centre.

Key facts

Datesc. 1000 – 1420 CE
RegionWest Africa
ContinentAfrica
CapitalIle-Ife
FounderOduduwa (traditional)
Religion(s)Yoruba religion

Before & after

Followed by

Oyo Empire Kingdom of Benin

Sources

Dates follow widely used reference works; many ancient dates are approximate or debated. Neutral summary for general reference.