TEMPLE OF PYTHON, OUIDAH, BENIN REPUBLIC @happynaija

TEMPLE OF PYTHON, OUIDAH, BENIN REPUBLIC 

A snarl of snakes forms a knot in the corner of a nondescript indoor pit. Other serpents slither around them. Though it’s an intimidating sight, in this African temple the powerful pythons aren’t feared but instead revered and worshiped. 
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The Temple of Pythons is a site of historical and modern symbolism and spiritual practice in Ouidah, Benin. The snakes are a major totem for followers of Vodun, a religion practiced by groups of people within West and Central African nations such as Ghana, Togo, and Benin.
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In most parts of the world snakes are feared, but in Benin they are revered. Royal pythons are worshiped in Benin, especially in Ouidah.
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The snakes aren’t fed, though they are let out about once a week to prey upon chickens and mice. They occasionally make their way into local homes, where they’re treated as ordinary guests before being returned to the temple.
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The Temple of Pythons is a small room of twelve square meters that houses 50 adult royal pythons. Take a picture with a python around your neck or stroke the snakes if you are scared of being strangled.
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Several shrines were built for offerings to the 'snake-god' Dagbe, but the biggest offerings come from the tourists who pay $1.50 to enter the Temple of the Sacred Python.
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The snakes are harmless and visitors are permitted to hold them. For an extra fee, people can even take photographs with the slithering star attractions.