Ancient Ferrous Metallurgy Sites of Burkina Faso
Location: Burkina Faso
Year of Inscription: 2019
Criteria: (iii) bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared; (v) be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
Overview: The Ancient Ferrous Metallurgy Sites of Burkina Faso is a group of three sites in Burkina Faso that showcase the traditional methods of producing iron and steel, as practiced by the Mossi people from the 8th to the 19th century. The sites are Tiwêga, Yamané, and Douroula. These sites are a testament to the traditional knowledge and skills of the Mossi people, who were able to produce high-quality iron and steel products using simple technologies.
Prominent Features: The three sites feature a variety of structures and artifacts, including furnaces, forges, and tools used in the production of iron and steel. Visitors can explore the sites and learn about the processes used by the Mossi people to create their products. The sites also feature exhibits that showcase the traditional lifestyles of the Mossi people.
History: The Mossi people of Burkina Faso were known for their skills in iron and steel production. The process was passed down through generations and was an essential part of their culture and livelihood. The three sites were chosen because they are the most well-preserved examples of the Mossi iron and steel production technology.
Family-Friendly Activities: Burkina Faso is a great destination for families interested in learning about traditional cultures and ways of life. Visitors can explore local markets and crafts shops, attend cultural festivals, and participate in workshops on traditional crafts and techniques.
Fun Fact: The furnaces used by the Mossi people to produce iron and steel were designed to maximize efficiency and minimize fuel consumption, making them an early example of sustainable production practices.
Entry Fees: The entry fees for the Ancient Ferrous Metallurgy Sites of Burkina Faso vary depending on the site visited and the activities participated in. Guided tours of the sites typically cost around 5,000 CFA (approximately 9 USD) per person.
How to Reach it: The three sites are located in different parts of Burkina Faso and can be reached by car or bus from the major cities. Tiwêga is located in the western part of the country, Yamané is in the central region, and Douroula is in the eastern region. The most accessible site from the capital, Ouagadougou, is the Yamané site, which is located about 22 km northeast of the city. It can be reached by car or taxi in about 30 minutes. The other sites are located further away and require a longer journey by car or public transport.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options available near the Ancient Ferrous Metallurgy Sites of Burkina Faso, including budget-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and luxury resorts. Some popular options include the Hotel Splendid Ouagadougou, the Laico Ouaga 2000, and the Bravia Hotel Ouagadougou.
Next Stop: Ruins of Loropéni
Year of Inscription: 2019
Criteria: (iii) bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared; (v) be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
Overview: The Ancient Ferrous Metallurgy Sites of Burkina Faso is a group of three sites in Burkina Faso that showcase the traditional methods of producing iron and steel, as practiced by the Mossi people from the 8th to the 19th century. The sites are Tiwêga, Yamané, and Douroula. These sites are a testament to the traditional knowledge and skills of the Mossi people, who were able to produce high-quality iron and steel products using simple technologies.
Prominent Features: The three sites feature a variety of structures and artifacts, including furnaces, forges, and tools used in the production of iron and steel. Visitors can explore the sites and learn about the processes used by the Mossi people to create their products. The sites also feature exhibits that showcase the traditional lifestyles of the Mossi people.
History: The Mossi people of Burkina Faso were known for their skills in iron and steel production. The process was passed down through generations and was an essential part of their culture and livelihood. The three sites were chosen because they are the most well-preserved examples of the Mossi iron and steel production technology.
Family-Friendly Activities: Burkina Faso is a great destination for families interested in learning about traditional cultures and ways of life. Visitors can explore local markets and crafts shops, attend cultural festivals, and participate in workshops on traditional crafts and techniques.
Fun Fact: The furnaces used by the Mossi people to produce iron and steel were designed to maximize efficiency and minimize fuel consumption, making them an early example of sustainable production practices.
Entry Fees: The entry fees for the Ancient Ferrous Metallurgy Sites of Burkina Faso vary depending on the site visited and the activities participated in. Guided tours of the sites typically cost around 5,000 CFA (approximately 9 USD) per person.
How to Reach it: The three sites are located in different parts of Burkina Faso and can be reached by car or bus from the major cities. Tiwêga is located in the western part of the country, Yamané is in the central region, and Douroula is in the eastern region. The most accessible site from the capital, Ouagadougou, is the Yamané site, which is located about 22 km northeast of the city. It can be reached by car or taxi in about 30 minutes. The other sites are located further away and require a longer journey by car or public transport.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options available near the Ancient Ferrous Metallurgy Sites of Burkina Faso, including budget-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and luxury resorts. Some popular options include the Hotel Splendid Ouagadougou, the Laico Ouaga 2000, and the Bravia Hotel Ouagadougou.
Next Stop: Ruins of Loropéni