What is the official capital of Benin?

Porto-Novo is the official capital of Benin, although Cotonou is the country’s main governmental and economic hub.

Porto-Novo lies in southeastern Benin near a lagoon connected to the Gulf of Guinea. Its name is Portuguese for “New Port,” reflecting the city’s historical connections with Portuguese traders and the wider Atlantic coastal trade. The city developed from earlier local kingdoms and became an important regional centre.

After accepting French protection in 1863, Porto-Novo became the capital of French Dahomey in 1900. When Benin gained independence in 1960, it retained its official-capital status. Benin’s national legislature is located there, and the city remains the constitutional and ceremonial capital.

Cotonou is the frequent source of confusion. It is larger and hosts the presidency, most ministries, foreign embassies, and much of the country’s commerce, making it the practical seat of government. That administrative reality does not change Porto-Novo’s status as Benin’s official capital.