|
Djenne's Great Mosque, built in Sudano-Sahelian architectural style is the largest mud brick building in the world. Sitting beside the Bani River, Great mosque of Djenne is a famous landmark in the continent of Africa. In 1988, Djenne's Great Mosque was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Although the present Mosque of Djenne is considered as an architectural wonder, it is not the original one. In 13th century, Koy Konboro built Djenne's first Great Mosque. The old mosque in 19th century was abandoned and fell into ruin because of inner conflict between several groups. Between 1906 and 1907, the present Djenne Mosque was constructed on the site of the previous mosque.
This Great Mosque in Djenne was built up of mud mortar, mud bricks and mud plaster. The specialty of the building is that if regularly maintained, the mud structure will last for centuries. Every year, during the celebration of a festival, the community of Djenne assembles together and engage themselves in repairing the Mosque. Although the festival includes music and food, the prime target is to repair the structure. According to a popular custom, the festival begins with a race to bring the mud plaster to the Great Mosque. During the market days, the Great Mosque of Djenne is flooded by vendors and shoppers.
|
