pets Vodun
Dangbé, the sacred snake
Dangbé (the royal python) is one of the most venerated Vodun in Benin. The Temple of Pythons in Ouidah, built in 1727, is entirely dedicated to him.
Who is Dangbé?
Dangbé is the serpent Vodun (dàn). A symbol of fertility, wisdom and protection, he is represented by the royal python — a non-venomous species venerated throughout southern Benin.
Temple of Pythons in Ouidah
Built in 1727 by King Kpassè, the temple houses dozens of royal pythons that move about freely. Visitors can touch them and wear them around their necks.
Powers and offerings
Dangbé is invoked for:
Visiting the temple
Paid entry (about 1500 F CFA for foreigners). Photos allowed with the guardian’s permission. Touching a python is a blessing — a guaranteed good-luck charm according to tradition.
The snake that protects
Dangbé embodies the bond between humans and a sacred animal. Visiting his temple in Ouidah means getting a firsthand feel for 300 years of living tradition.
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