The Vernacular Architectural Heritage of Abeokuta: History, Forms and Decorative Motifs.

Abstract

One of the prominent attributes of Abeokuta, an ancient town in southwestern Nigeria, is its imposing architecture, with physical structures that have been standing for decades and reflecting a rich cultural history. Notably, many of these buildings exhibit Afro-Brazilian influences, showcasing a blend of traditional Yoruba and colonial architectural forms. This paper aims to classify the diverse architectural typology in Abeokuta and analyse their decorative motifs. Primary and secondary data were sourced using interviews and photographic-recording instruments.  The study employed historical and formal analyses of the data. In the end, the history of Abeokuta and the factors that influenced its architectural evolution were explored, highlighting the cultural and historical significance of the forms and decorative motifs of the building structures. The study aims to contribute to a broader understanding of Abeokuta's architectural heritage typology, forms and decorative motifs, offering valuable insights into how historical and cultural dynamics are embedded in the city’s built environment.