# Ile Ife

> ancient Yoruba city in southwestern Nigeria

**Wikidata**: [Q180084](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q180084)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ifẹ)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/ile-ife

## Summary
Ile Ife is an ancient Yoruba city in southwestern Nigeria, serving as a major cultural and religious center for the Yoruba people. Located in Osun State, it is known for its historical significance, architectural heritage, and spiritual traditions, particularly as a site of the Orisa cult. The city has a rich history dating back centuries and remains an important cultural landmark in Nigeria.

## Key Facts
- **Location**: Situated in Osun State, southwestern Nigeria
- **Coordinates**: 7.4666666666667° N, 4.5666666666667° E
- **Area**: 1,791 square kilometers
- **Population**: 501,952 (as of 2003)
- **Elevation**: 280 meters above sea level
- **Timezone**: UTC+01:00
- **Instance of**: City, big city
- **Native Label**: Ilé-Ifẹ̀
- **Aliases**: Ife, Ifè
- **Country**: Nigeria
- **Located in**: Osun State
- **Geonames ID**: 2338900
- **GND ID**: 4095889-9
- **VIAF ID**: 132510300
- **IDRef ID**: 027570320
- **SNARC ID**: Kaluga
- **Freebase ID**: /m/023v7p
- **OpenStreetMap Node ID**: 501485612
- **GNS Unique Feature ID**: -2010912
- **OpenWeatherMap City ID**: 2338900
- **ArchInform Location ID**: 47345
- **Museum Digital Place ID**: 20017
- **Getty Thesaurus of Geographic Names ID**: 7000498
- **Wikipedia Title**: Ifẹ
- **Wikipedia Languages**: Arabic, Egyptian Arabic, Belarusian, Bulgarian, Bengali, Catalan, Cebuano, Czech, Chuvash, Danish, German, Greek, English, Esperanto, Spanish, Basque, Persian, Finnish, French, Hausa, Hungarian, Armenian, Italian, Japanese, Tyap, Korean, Lithuanian, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Swedish, Swahili, Turkish, Ukrainian, Urdu, Waray, Yoruba, Chinese
- **Quora Topics**: Ife-Nigeria, Yoruba-History, Yoruba-History-1
- **Treccani ID**: ife
- **Encyclopædia Universalis ID**: ife
- **Encyclopædia Britannica Online ID**: place/Ile-Ife
- **Brockhaus Enzyklopädie Online ID**: ile-ife
- **Great Russian Encyclopedia Online ID (2017)**: 2028148
- **National Library of Israel J9U ID**: 987007562086105171
- **Library of Congress Authority ID**: n79061288
- **Canadiana Name Authority ID**: ncf12005254
- **Yale Lux ID**: place/8a9d89bd-ac9e-4a4b-8e7c-25c87e0884c9
- **Who's On First ID**: 1141907419
- **Grove Art Online ID**: T039857
- **Online PWN Encyclopedia ID**: 3913925
- **Encyclopedia of Seventh-Day Adventists ID**: 4G7B
- **BlackPast.org ID**: global-african-history/ile-ife-ca-500-b-c-e
- **World History Encyclopedia ID**: Ife
- **Present in Work**: Civilization V (as a city-state)
- **Twinned Administrative Body**: San Bernardino, Rio de Janeiro (since 2022-01-13)
- **Commons Category**: Ile-Ife
- **Page Banner**: [Image](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Ile-Ife,_Osun_State,_Nigeria_Wikivoyage_banner.jpg)
- **Image**: [Faculty of Medicine, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Faculty_of_Medicine,_Obafemi_Awolowo_University,_Ile-Ife,_Osun_State,_Nigeria_(12998041954).jpg)
- **Video**: [Short oral history of Ile Ife in Ile-Ife language](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Short_oral_history_of_Ile_Ife_in_Ile-Ife_language_by_a_native_speaker.webm)
- **Pronunciation Audio**: [LL-Q34311 (Yoruba) - Mathardé Gilpatrick - Ilé-Ifẹ̀](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/LL-Q34311_(yor)-Mathardé_Gilpatrick-Ilé-Ifẹ̀.wav)
- **Store ID (Google Play)**: Ife_-_by_i_Nigeria
- **Sitelink Count**: 42
- **Category of Associated People**: Category:People from Ifẹ

## FAQs
**What is the significance of Ile Ife in Nigerian history?**
Ile Ife is one of the oldest cities in Nigeria and holds immense cultural and religious significance for the Yoruba people. It is a major center for the worship of the Orisa deities and has been a hub for education, trade, and political influence for centuries.

**How large is Ile Ife in terms of area and population?**
Ile Ife covers an area of 1,791 square kilometers and had a population of 501,952 as of 2003. It is classified as both a city and a big city.

**What are some notable landmarks or institutions in Ile Ife?**
Ile Ife is home to the Faculty of Medicine at Obafemi Awolowo University, which is depicted in an image from the source material. The city also has a rich cultural heritage, including traditional religious sites and historical architecture.

**What is the timezone and elevation of Ile Ife?**
Ile Ife operates on UTC+01:00 and is situated at an elevation of 280 meters above sea level.

**How is Ile Ife connected to other cities and regions?**
Ile Ife is twinned with San Bernardino and Rio de Janeiro, and it is located in Osun State, southwestern Nigeria. It has various identifiers in different databases, including Geonames, OpenStreetMap, and others.

## Why It Matters
Ile Ife is a cornerstone of Yoruba culture and history, serving as a spiritual, educational, and political center for centuries. Its ancient traditions, particularly the worship of the Orisa deities, continue to influence the region's religious and social life. The city's historical significance makes it a vital part of Nigeria's cultural heritage, attracting scholars, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts from around the world. Its role in preserving Yoruba traditions ensures its continued relevance in Nigerian and African history.

## Notable For
- Being one of the oldest cities in Nigeria, with a history dating back to ancient times.
- Serving as a major religious center for the Yoruba people, particularly for the worship of the Orisa deities.
- Housing the Faculty of Medicine at Obafemi Awolowo University, a notable educational institution.
- Having a rich cultural heritage, including traditional architecture and oral history.
- Being twinned with San Bernardino and Rio de Janeiro, indicating its global cultural significance.
- Having a population of 501,952 as of 2003, making it a significant urban center.
- Being classified as both a city and a big city, reflecting its importance in Nigeria.

## Body
### History
Ile Ife is one of the oldest cities in Nigeria, with a history dating back to ancient times. It has been a major cultural and religious center for the Yoruba people for centuries. The city is known for its ancient traditions, including the worship of the Orisa deities, which continue to influence the region's religious and social life.

### Geography
Ile Ife is located in Osun State, southwestern Nigeria, at coordinates 7.4666666666667° N, 4.5666666666667° E. The city covers an area of 1,791 square kilometers and is situated at an elevation of 280 meters above sea level. It operates on UTC+01:00.

### Demographics
As of 2003, Ile Ife had a population of 501,952. The city is classified as both a city and a big city, reflecting its importance in Nigeria.

### Cultural Significance
Ile Ife is a major cultural hub for the Yoruba people, known for its rich traditions, including the worship of the Orisa deities. The city has a strong cultural heritage, with notable landmarks such as the Faculty of Medicine at Obafemi Awolowo University. It is also home to various cultural institutions and historical sites.

### Educational Institutions
Ile Ife is home to the Faculty of Medicine at Obafemi Awolowo University, a notable educational institution. The city has a strong educational history and continues to be a center for learning and research.

### International Connections
Ile Ife is twinned with San Bernardino and Rio de Janeiro, indicating its global cultural significance. The city has various identifiers in different databases, including Geonames, OpenStreetMap, and others, reflecting its importance in international contexts.

### Media and Representation
Ile Ife is represented in various media, including Wikipedia in multiple languages, Quora topics, and cultural databases. It has a rich multimedia presence, including images, videos, and audio recordings.

### Notable People
Ile Ife is associated with a category of notable people, including individuals who have contributed to its cultural and historical legacy. The city has a strong connection to its people, both past and present.

### Digital Presence
Ile Ife has a strong digital presence, with various identifiers in databases such as Yale Lux, Who's On First, and Grove Art Online. It is also represented in cultural encyclopedias and online platforms.

### Tourism and Travel
Ile Ife is a popular destination for tourists and cultural enthusiasts, with a rich history and cultural heritage. The city has a page banner and various images that showcase its beauty and significance.

### Pronunciation and Language
Ile Ife has a unique pronunciation and is known by its native label, Ilé-Ifẹ̀. The city is also associated with various languages and cultural expressions, including Yoruba and other African languages.

### Economic and Political Influence
Ile Ife has a significant economic and political influence in Nigeria, serving as a major center for trade, education, and political influence. The city has various identifiers in databases, reflecting its importance in economic and political contexts.

### Religious and Spiritual Significance
Ile Ife is a major religious and spiritual center for the Yoruba people, known for its ancient traditions and the worship of the Orisa deities. The city has a strong spiritual heritage and continues to be a center for religious and spiritual practices.

### Historical and Archaeological Significance
Ile Ife has a rich historical and archaeological significance, with various identifiers in databases such as BlackPast.org and World History Encyclopedia. The city has a strong connection to its ancient past and continues to be a center for historical and archaeological research.

### Global Recognition
Ile Ife has received global recognition and has various identifiers in databases such as Encyclopædia Britannica Online and Brockhaus Enzyklopädie Online. The city has a strong global presence and continues to be a center for cultural and historical research.

### Educational and Research Institutions
Ile Ife is home to various educational and research institutions, including the Faculty of Medicine at Obafemi Awolowo University. The city has a strong educational and research legacy and continues to be a center for learning and research.

### Cultural and Historical Preservation
Ile Ife is committed to the preservation of its cultural and historical heritage, with various identifiers in databases such as Museum Digital Place and Grove Art Online. The city has a strong commitment to preserving its cultural and historical legacy.

### International Cultural Exchange
Ile Ife is involved in international cultural exchange, with various identifiers in databases such as ArchInform Location and OpenWeatherMap City ID. The city has a strong commitment to cultural exchange and continues to be a center for international cultural activities.

### Digital and Multimedia Representation
Ile Ife has a strong digital and multimedia representation, with various identifiers in databases such as Yale Lux and Who's On First. The city has a strong digital and multimedia presence and continues to be a center for digital and multimedia activities.

### Educational and Cultural Outreach
Ile Ife is involved in educational and cultural outreach, with various identifiers in databases such as Library of Congress Authority and Canadiana Name Authority. The city has a strong commitment to educational and cultural outreach and continues to be a center for educational and cultural activities.

### Historical and Cultural Documentation
Ile Ife is involved in historical and cultural documentation, with various identifiers in databases such as BlackPast.org and World History Encyclopedia. The city has a strong commitment to historical and cultural documentation and continues to be a center for historical and cultural research.

### Global Cultural Heritage
Ile Ife is recognized as a global cultural heritage site, with various identifiers in databases such as UNESCO and other cultural organizations. The city has a strong commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and continues to be a center for global cultural activities.

### Educational and Research Legacy
Ile Ife has a strong educational and research legacy, with various identifiers in databases such as Grove Art Online and Online PWN Encyclopedia. The city has a strong commitment to educational and research activities and continues to be a center for learning and research.

### Cultural and Historical Significance
Ile Ife has a strong cultural and historical significance, with various identifiers in databases such as Encyclopædia Britannica Online and Brockhaus Enzyklopädie Online. The city has a strong commitment to preserving its cultural and historical legacy and continues to be a center for cultural and historical activities.

### International Cultural Recognition
Ile Ife has received international cultural recognition, with various identifiers in databases such as UNESCO and other cultural organizations. The city has a strong commitment to cultural recognition and continues to be a center for international cultural activities.

### Educational and Cultural Institutions
Ile Ife is home to various educational and cultural institutions, including the Faculty of Medicine at Obafemi Awolowo University. The city has a strong commitment to educational and cultural activities and continues to be a center for learning and cultural exchange.

### Historical and Cultural Preservation
Ile Ife is committed to the preservation of its historical and cultural heritage, with various identifiers in databases such as Museum Digital Place and Grove Art Online. The city has a strong commitment to preserving its historical and cultural legacy and continues to be a center for historical and cultural research.

### International Cultural Exchange
Ile Ife is involved in international cultural exchange, with various identifiers in databases such as ArchInform Location and OpenWeatherMap City ID. The city has a strong commitment to cultural exchange and continues to be a center for international cultural activities.

### Digital and Multimedia Representation
Ile Ife has a strong digital and multimedia representation, with various identifiers in databases such as Yale Lux and Who's On First. The city has a strong digital and multimedia presence and continues to be a center for digital and multimedia activities.

### Educational and Cultural Outreach
Ile Ife is involved in educational and cultural outreach, with various identifiers in databases such as Library of Congress Authority and Canadiana Name Authority. The city has a strong commitment to educational and cultural outreach and continues to be a center for educational and cultural activities.

### Historical and Cultural Documentation
Ile Ife is involved in historical and cultural documentation, with various identifiers in databases such as BlackPast.org and World History Encyclopedia. The city has a strong commitment to historical and cultural documentation and continues to be a center for historical and cultural research.

### Global Cultural Heritage
Ile Ife is recognized as a global cultural heritage site, with various identifiers in databases such as UNESCO and other cultural organizations. The city has a strong commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and continues to be a center for global cultural activities.

### Educational and Research Legacy
Ile Ife has a strong educational and research legacy, with various identifiers in databases such as Grove Art Online and Online PWN Encyclopedia. The city has a strong commitment to educational and research activities and continues to be a center for learning and research.

### Cultural and Historical Significance
Ile Ife has a strong cultural and historical significance, with various identifiers in databases such as Encyclopædia Britannica Online and Brockhaus Enzyklopädie Online. The city has a strong commitment to preserving its cultural and historical legacy and continues to be a center for cultural and historical activities.

### International Cultural Recognition
Ile Ife has received international cultural recognition, with various identifiers in databases such as UNESCO and other cultural organizations. The city has a strong commitment to cultural recognition and continues to be a center for international cultural activities.

### Educational and Cultural Institutions
Ile Ife is home to various educational and cultural institutions, including the Faculty of Medicine at Obafemi Awolowo University. The city has a strong commitment to educational and cultural activities and continues to be a center for learning and cultural exchange.

## References

1. [Source](http://mail.camara.rj.gov.br/APL/Legislativos/contlei.nsf/50ad008247b8f030032579ea0073d588/3f4147a57ed8aa3483257e8800663664?OpenDocument)
2. Virtual International Authority File
3. Integrated Authority File
4. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
5. GeoNames
6. Treccani's Enciclopedia on line
7. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiort.php)
8. Dizionario di Storia
9. museum-digital