Porto-Novo is the capital of Benin but it is a pleasant city which differs from the other bustling and busy cities of this fascinating country. It is a port on an inlet of the Gulf of Guinea, in the southeastern portion of the country. Porto-Novo is Benin's second largest city, but the city of Cotonou is more important, culturally and politically. Located close to the beach and with numerous attractions such as museums and palaces, the city makes an interesting place to visit. Porto-Novo was once a tributary of the Yoruba kingdom of Oyo and there continues to be a sizable Yoruba community in Porto Novo today. The city's name is of Portuguese origin, meaning "New Port." It was originally developed as a port for the slave trade. Attractions in Porto-Novo Places worth visiting in Porto-Novo include Museé Ethnographique de Porto Novo; a museum that takes an intensive look into the past of Porto Novo’s kings, Palais Royal du Roi Toffa; the former residence of King Toffa and Museé da Silva which is a museum that celebrates the Afro-Brazilian influence on the city. Also worth a look is the 19th century Brazilian style church which is now converted into a mosque; a colourful and unique building.