Mbari Cultural Centre, Owerri || A Treasure House of Igbo Art and Spirituality

In the heart of Owerri, Imo State, lies a peaceful and powerful place that tells the story of the Igbo people through art and tradition,the Mbari Cultural Centre. This cultural landmark is not just a museum, but a living memory of Igbo beliefs, creativity, and respect for the gods. It offers a rich experience for tourists, students, and anyone interested in Nigeria’s cultural roots.

Whether you’re from the southeast or visiting from afar, Mbari Cultural Centre is one of the best places in Imo State to learn about ancient African spirituality and enjoy beautiful handcrafted sculptures.

What Is the Mbari Cultural Centre?

The Mbari Cultural Centre is an open-air museum located in Ikenegbu Layout, a central and accessible area in Owerri, the capital of Imo State. The centre was created to preserve and showcase Mbari art, a traditional Igbo art form that celebrates peace, prosperity, and respect for the gods, especially Ala, the earth goddess.

Built in the 1980s, the centre has become a cultural symbol in the southeastern region of Nigeria. It is managed by the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture and is often used for cultural performances, school tours, art exhibitions, and tourist visits.

What Is Mbari Art?

To understand the cultural centre, we must first understand Mbari.

Mbari is a sacred form of visual art that comes from the Owerri and Mbaise areas of Igboland. It is not just about decoration or entertainment, it is a religious and spiritual activity. Traditionally, Mbari artists (usually selected members of the community) would build a large open-sided mud house, filled with life-sized sculptures made of clay, to please the gods.

These figures often include:

• Ala, the earth goddess
• Amadioha, the god of thunder
• Animals like snakes, tortoises, crocodiles
• Human figures like kings, priests, colonial officers
• Scenes of everyday life, war, farming, and markets

Mbari houses were not meant to last forever. After the community dedicated the house to the gods, it was left to decay naturally, symbolizing the return of all things to the earth. This tradition shows the Igbo belief in life, death, and rebirth.

What Can You See at the Mbari Cultural Centre?

Today, the Cultural Centre brings this tradition back to life in a more permanent way. While it is not a traditional Mbari house built as a sacred ritual, it reflects the same spirit and meaning.

1. Mbari House (Mud Structure)

Mbari House

At the centre is a reconstructed Mbari House, complete with brightly painted clay figures. These statues are designed in traditional styles and tell stories about Igbo life, beliefs, and even colonial history. You’ll see:

• Statues of gods and goddesses
• Local chiefs, musicians, dancers, and soldiers
• Women cooking or carrying goods
• Animals from Igbo folklore

This part of the centre is treated with respect, and in some cases, visitors are not allowed to touch or take photos without permission.

2. Museum Kitchen and Domestic Tools

Another part of the centre displays old Igbo household items. You can see traditional cooking pots, grinding stones, baskets, and kitchen setups from the past. This gives visitors a clear picture of how Igbo families lived many years ago.

3. Cultural Performance Stage (Amphitheatre)

There’s a small open-air performance area, also known as an amphitheatre. This is where cultural groups perform music, dances, storytelling, and dramatic plays. It is often used during festivals or school events to keep Igbo oral traditions alive.

4. Art Gallery and Exhibition Hall

Sometimes, the centre hosts art exhibitions, cultural lectures, and workshops for both students and adult learners. It is also used by artists who want to showcase their modern versions of traditional Igbo art.

The Importance of Mbari to the Igbo People

The Mbari tradition is not just about art, it is a symbol of peace, prosperity, and spiritual connection. The houses were built

• When a priest or oracle instructed the community to do so
• To celebrate peace after war or conflict
• As a sacrifice to the gods, especially during hard times

The process of building an Mbari house could take months or years, and involved singing, dancing, fasting, and prayers. Those chosen to build it were isolated from the public during the process. Once completed, the house was celebrated with a feast and then left untouched, no one lived in it or repaired it.

Today, even though traditional Mbari houses are no longer built often, the Mbari Cultural Centre helps preserve this sacred knowledge, especially for younger generations.

Why Should You Visit?

Visiting the Mbari Cultural Centre is a chance to

• See beautiful, hand-crafted clay sculptures
• Learn about African spirituality and religious art
• Explore the Igbo worldview of gods, nature, and community
• Support local culture and artists
• Experience peaceful, cultural tourism away from the noise of city life

It is especially ideal for:

• Students and researchers
• Tourists seeking traditional culture
• Artists and photographers
• Schools, cultural groups, and families

What to Wear

• Wear light and respectful clothing
• Bring a cap or hat if visiting during hot season
• Comfortable shoes for walking around
• Bring a notebook or phone if you want to take notes or sketch

The Cultural Centre is one of the most unique and powerful cultural sites in southeastern Nigeria. It doesn’t just display art, it tells the story of Igbo beliefs, respect for nature, and deep spirituality.

In a world where traditional values are fast disappearing, the Mbari Cultural Centre stands as a reminder of who we are and where we come from.

So, if you’re visiting Owerri or exploring Imo State, take a few hours to visit this sacred space. You will leave not only with photos but also with knowledge, wisdom, and a deep appreciation for African creativity.

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