Sudanese style mosques in northern Côte d’Ivoire
Location: Northern Côte d'Ivoire
Year of Inscription: 2021
Criteria: (i) represents a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(iv) is an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural, or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
(vi) is directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
Overview: The Sudanese style mosques in northern Côte d'Ivoire are a group of three mosques located in the cities of Kong, Kouto, and Odienne. The mosques were built in the 17th and 18th centuries and are some of the finest examples of Sudano-Sahelian architecture in West Africa. They are characterized by their distinctive adobe structures, intricate wooden carvings, and tall conical towers.
Prominent Features: The mosques are notable for their intricate wooden carvings, which adorn the doorways and pillars of the buildings. The towers of the mosques are also noteworthy, as they are decorated with intricate geometric patterns and topped with pointed spires. Visitors can also admire the mosques' unique construction techniques, which use mud bricks and wooden beams.
History: The mosques were built in the 17th and 18th centuries during the height of the Sahelian empires, which included the Ghana, Mali, and Songhai empires. They were constructed using traditional Sudano-Sahelian building techniques, which were used throughout West Africa during this period. The mosques have been in continuous use since their construction and remain important centers of worship for local communities.
Family-Friendly Activities: The mosques offer a unique opportunity for families to learn about the history and culture of West Africa. Children can admire the intricate carvings and geometric patterns of the mosques and learn about traditional building techniques. Local guides are available to provide informative tours of the mosques.
Fun Fact: The mosques in this region were built without the use of any nails or iron bars in their construction, a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the builders who used mud and other natural materials to create these impressive structures.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit the Sudanese style mosques in northern Côte d'Ivoire.
How to Reach it: The mosques are located in the cities of Kong, Kouto, and Odienne in northern Côte d'Ivoire. The easiest way to reach the mosques is by hiring a car or taking a taxi from the nearest major city, such as Korhogo or Boundiali.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in the cities of Kong, Kouto, and Odienne, ranging from budget to luxury. Some of the popular options include Hotel Eburnea, Hotel Palais de Kong, and Hotel Karambole. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, as availability can be limited.
Next Stop: Comoé National Park
Year of Inscription: 2021
Criteria: (i) represents a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(iv) is an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural, or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
(vi) is directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance.
Overview: The Sudanese style mosques in northern Côte d'Ivoire are a group of three mosques located in the cities of Kong, Kouto, and Odienne. The mosques were built in the 17th and 18th centuries and are some of the finest examples of Sudano-Sahelian architecture in West Africa. They are characterized by their distinctive adobe structures, intricate wooden carvings, and tall conical towers.
Prominent Features: The mosques are notable for their intricate wooden carvings, which adorn the doorways and pillars of the buildings. The towers of the mosques are also noteworthy, as they are decorated with intricate geometric patterns and topped with pointed spires. Visitors can also admire the mosques' unique construction techniques, which use mud bricks and wooden beams.
History: The mosques were built in the 17th and 18th centuries during the height of the Sahelian empires, which included the Ghana, Mali, and Songhai empires. They were constructed using traditional Sudano-Sahelian building techniques, which were used throughout West Africa during this period. The mosques have been in continuous use since their construction and remain important centers of worship for local communities.
Family-Friendly Activities: The mosques offer a unique opportunity for families to learn about the history and culture of West Africa. Children can admire the intricate carvings and geometric patterns of the mosques and learn about traditional building techniques. Local guides are available to provide informative tours of the mosques.
Fun Fact: The mosques in this region were built without the use of any nails or iron bars in their construction, a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the builders who used mud and other natural materials to create these impressive structures.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit the Sudanese style mosques in northern Côte d'Ivoire.
How to Reach it: The mosques are located in the cities of Kong, Kouto, and Odienne in northern Côte d'Ivoire. The easiest way to reach the mosques is by hiring a car or taking a taxi from the nearest major city, such as Korhogo or Boundiali.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in the cities of Kong, Kouto, and Odienne, ranging from budget to luxury. Some of the popular options include Hotel Eburnea, Hotel Palais de Kong, and Hotel Karambole. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, as availability can be limited.
Next Stop: Comoé National Park