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Djenne is one of the most beautiful and ancient cities in Mali. The city of Djenne is located on the flood lands of the rivers Niger and Bani, which is 354 kilometers southwest of Timbuktu, Mali. The city of Djenne was established by the merchants around 800 AD. The Mosque of this region forms an evidence of the glory of the architectural past. The city of Djenne in Mali was designated as the World Heritage Site in the year of 1988.
History of Djenne
During the ancient period, Djenne developed as a trading center with the traders from deserts of Sudan and the tropical forests of Guinea. In 1468, this region was conquered by the Songhai ruler Sonni Ali and later in the 16th century it became one of the permanent trading centers of Mali. Between 1591 and 1780, Djenne was dominated by the Moroccan rulers and the market was flooded with huge number of products from North and Central Africa. Apart from the architectural works, this place has been a center of Islamic learning and religion attracting numerous worshipers from all over the world.
Facts about Djenne
The city of Djenne is geographically located between 13° 54' 0'' North Latitude and 4° 32' 60'' West Longitude and at an altitude of 273 meters. It is a landlocked city surrounded by different cities and towns. To the west of Djenne lies Gomitogo and Yera, while to its North lies Senoussa and Niala and to the South is Diablo.
Travelers can reach the city easily, as the nearest airport Mopti Ambodedjo is just 45 nm away. Within the city the easiest way of transport is through taxis. Agriculture and tourism form the major source of revenue for the city of Djenne.
Attractions in Djenne
The Mosque of Djenne is a must visit site in the region of Djenne. This great mosque is situated in the market area of Djenne and is well known for its traditional architectural design. There are three mosques in the region. The first mosque was established in 1240 by Sultan Koi Kunboro. He was the person who replaced the palace with a mosque. The second mosque was constructed in the 1830, while the third or the present mosque was built in 1907 by the famous architect Ismaila Traore, the head of Djenne’s guild of masons. During the festivals this place becomes more lively and colorful.
The city of Djenne with its several tourist attractions and exciting activities, assures a memorable holiday in the country of Mali.
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