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The Grand Mosque of Djenne is the largest mud-brick building
in the world. Although the elegant structure which stands
there today is not the original mosque which stood on the
site, it has become a vivid symbol of the town and a UNESCO
World Heritage site.
What's the history here?
The original mosque in Djenne was built in the 13th century
by Koy Konboro, the town's first Islamic ruler. He
tore down his own palace and built a mosque on the site as
an expression of devotion to his new found faith. The religious
structure towered over the town for 600 years, and tales of
its magnificence spread far and wide, even reaching Europe.
In the 19th century, the region was beset by political strife
and ideological, and the mosque was abandoned and fell into
disrepair. In the political climate of the time the townsfolk
preferred a smaller, more modest mosque which was built in
1835 and dedicated to Cheikou Amadou, the warrior king.
The current mosque was constructed in 1906 and it's Sahel-style
design was closely based on the original. The wooden 'spikes'
which cover the exterior walls are part of the framework which
supports the mud bricks, but give the building a rather foreboding
appearance.
At the end of every rainy season, the townsfolk all take
part in essential restoration work, to renew the smooth layer
of mud which covers the bricks. With 4000 willing pairs of
hands to assist in the preservation of the town's most famous
building, the entire project takes little over a month.
What's there to see & do?
It's forbidden for non-Muslims to enter the mosque, but even
from the outside it's a spectacular site. It's a quiet, picturesque
town and a wander through the narrow alleyways reveals that
it has remained largely unchanged since the 14th and 15th
centuries.
Monday is market day in Djenne, and the whole town bustles
with traders and shoppers who come from many miles around.
There's an incredible array of local wares for sale but little
in the way of tourist souvenirs. Nonetheless, itís
a fascinating window into West African society and culture.
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