Benin is a country located in West Africa, bordered by Nigeria to the east, Togo to the west, and Burkina Faso to the north. It has a coastline along the Gulf of Guinea to the south. The capital city is Porto-Novo, but the largest city is Cotonou. Benin is known for its rich history, including its role in the Dahomey Kingdom, which was prominent in the 18th and 19th centuries. The official language of Benin is French, reflecting its colonial past as part of French West Africa. The country has a diverse culture, with various ethnic groups, including the Fon and Yoruba. Benin is also famous for its vibrant traditions, such as the annual Voodoo Festival, which celebrates the local spiritual practices and beliefs.