Mosque of Djenne
Djenne is an ancient city located in southern Mali. The uniqueness of this place comes from the fact that this is the oldest sub-Saharan city. Located in the alluvial plain formed by the rivers Niger and Bani. This beautiful city population today numbers about 12,700 people and is located 354 km. from Timbuktu.The city is famous for its unique architecture, which is the emblem of the Grand Mosque here. This is the kind of history, entering the World Heritage List of UNESCO, as the same time are a member of the Organization of World Heritage cities.
Founded in the 13th century , this town was dependent on those times of Empire. Since then, between Timbuktu and Djenne has competition in trade in gold, slaves and salt. By the 17th century, Djenne has become a thriving commercial and educational center. In 1670 became part of the Bambara kingdom.
Nowadays Djenne continues to trade center, the main products here are fish, coffee and cola.One of archaeological attractions here are Djenne, Djenne, who is close to the town and dating from 250 BC
The architecture of the Grand Mosque, located on Market Square is true impressive. Built in 1240 by Sultan Who Kumboro, this is one of the most impressive examples of Islam in Mali.
In the 19th century local ruler Sheikh Amadou decided that this building is very impressive and allow it to self-destruct. Over 30 years of the century built on it a small building and its appearance in today's mosque was built landmark 1906 and 1907 by local master builder.The temple was built on a rectangular platform. The walls are thick landmark 41 and 61 cm not only withstand massive structure but isolated from the very high temperatures in Djenne. The roof structure is remarkable and has a removable ceramic caps, which are part of the vents.
There is a tradition every spring the walls of the mosque to be updated by a local adobe and palm tree.This tradition became a festive event for the city, accompanied by the annual fair. Holiday itself is accompanied by a ceremonial beating of drums and chants, while women wear to the mosque with water buckets on their heads and men bring a mixture of clay square. There is the custom at that time local Pranic be drenched from head to toe with mud.
