Dahomey

Africa has been the most affected continent by colonization over the centuries, especially after the Berlin Conference in 1885. Since then, the European powers have been bringing to their lands the various treasures, sculptures, paintings and works of art that used to belong to Africa.

The continent has achieved a stabilization never seen before over the years, and centuries after that Conference, the people now reclaim what was taken from them long ago. That is why in November 2021 returned to the Kingdom of Dahomey twenty-six royal treasures that were expropriated a long time ago, in 1892, by the French colonial troops, who mercilessly devastated the place.

However, local citizens and students from the University of Abomey-Calavi open a debate about the return of their goods, especially when they discover that there are still around seven thousand pieces that have not being returned yet. 'Dahomey' is a documentary directed by actress and filmmaker Mati Diop, winner of the Golden Bear for Best Film at the Berlin Festival. The director has previously made 'Atlantique', 'Big in Vietnam' or 'Mille soleils' among many other works.