Tomb of Askia
Location: Gao Region, Mali
Year of Inscription: 2004
Criteria: (ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Tomb of Askia is a grand mausoleum located in the town of Gao in Mali. It was built by the Songhai Emperor Askia Muhammad in the late 15th century as his final resting place. The Tomb of Askia is considered a masterpiece of West African Islamic architecture and stands as a testament to the power and influence of the Songhai Empire.
Prominent Features: The Tomb of Askia is an impressive structure made entirely of mud brick and stands over 17 meters tall. The building features a pyramidal shape, topped with a finial made of ostrich eggs, and is decorated with intricate geometric designs and patterns. The interior of the tomb contains several chambers and passageways, leading to the final resting place of Askia Muhammad.
History: The Tomb of Askia was built in the late 15th century by the Songhai Emperor Askia Muhammad after his return from a pilgrimage to Mecca. The tomb was constructed in the traditional Sudano-Sahelian architectural style, which is characterized by the use of mud bricks, wooden beams, and thatched roofs. The Songhai Empire was a powerful and influential empire in West Africa, and the Tomb of Askia is a testament to its wealth, power, and artistic achievements.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can visit the Tomb of Askia and learn about the history and architecture of the Songhai Empire. The surrounding area is also home to several historic and cultural sites, including the Gao Grand Mosque and the Gao Regional Museum.
Fun Fact: The Tomb of Askia was rediscovered in the 19th century after being buried for centuries under sand dunes.
Entry Fees: There is an entrance fee of 2,500 CFA Francs (approximately 4.50 USD) per person for visitors to the Tomb of Askia.
How to Reach It: By Road: The Tomb of Askia is located in the town of Gao in Mali, which is accessible by road from the capital city of Bamako 17-18 hours. Visitors can hire a car or take a taxi to reach the tomb. 10 hours from Timbuktu, 11 hours from Djenne
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in the town of Gao, including guesthouses and hotels. Some popular options include the Hotel La Cantine, the Hotel La Colombe, and the Hotel de l'Auberge.
Next Stop: Timbuktu
Year of Inscription: 2004
Criteria: (ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Tomb of Askia is a grand mausoleum located in the town of Gao in Mali. It was built by the Songhai Emperor Askia Muhammad in the late 15th century as his final resting place. The Tomb of Askia is considered a masterpiece of West African Islamic architecture and stands as a testament to the power and influence of the Songhai Empire.
Prominent Features: The Tomb of Askia is an impressive structure made entirely of mud brick and stands over 17 meters tall. The building features a pyramidal shape, topped with a finial made of ostrich eggs, and is decorated with intricate geometric designs and patterns. The interior of the tomb contains several chambers and passageways, leading to the final resting place of Askia Muhammad.
History: The Tomb of Askia was built in the late 15th century by the Songhai Emperor Askia Muhammad after his return from a pilgrimage to Mecca. The tomb was constructed in the traditional Sudano-Sahelian architectural style, which is characterized by the use of mud bricks, wooden beams, and thatched roofs. The Songhai Empire was a powerful and influential empire in West Africa, and the Tomb of Askia is a testament to its wealth, power, and artistic achievements.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can visit the Tomb of Askia and learn about the history and architecture of the Songhai Empire. The surrounding area is also home to several historic and cultural sites, including the Gao Grand Mosque and the Gao Regional Museum.
Fun Fact: The Tomb of Askia was rediscovered in the 19th century after being buried for centuries under sand dunes.
Entry Fees: There is an entrance fee of 2,500 CFA Francs (approximately 4.50 USD) per person for visitors to the Tomb of Askia.
How to Reach It: By Road: The Tomb of Askia is located in the town of Gao in Mali, which is accessible by road from the capital city of Bamako 17-18 hours. Visitors can hire a car or take a taxi to reach the tomb. 10 hours from Timbuktu, 11 hours from Djenne
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in the town of Gao, including guesthouses and hotels. Some popular options include the Hotel La Cantine, the Hotel La Colombe, and the Hotel de l'Auberge.
Next Stop: Timbuktu