Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, Nigeria

© PIUS UTOMI EKPEI/AFP/Getty Images

Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove in southwest Nigeria is deeply significant to the Yoruba: the largest ethnic group in the region, they practice the traditional Ifa religion. This is the last of the region's sacred groves, traditionally built in forests close to most Yoruba settlements to honor their many orisha (gods). Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is set within dense primary high forest near the city of Osogbo. It is dedicated to Osun, the goddess of fertility, and has over 40 shrines that draw Osun worshippers. Healers come here to gather medicinal plants in the hallowed forest too.

Sacred and spiritually significant sites around the world (msn.com)

Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, Nigeria Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove in southwest Nigeria is deeply significant to the Yoruba: the largest ethnic group in the region, they practice the traditional Ifa religion. This is the last of the region's sacred groves, traditionally built in forests close to most Yoruba settlements to honor their many orisha (gods). Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is set within dense primary high forest near the city of Osogbo. It is dedicated to Osun, the goddess of fertility, and has over 40 shrines that draw Osun worshippers. Healers come here to gather medicinal plants in the hallowed forest too.