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Grand Mosque of Mopti: An Architectural Marvel in Mud

Discover the Grand Mosque of Mopti, a stunning example of Sudano-Sahelian architecture and a testament to Mali's rich cultural heritage.

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The Grand Mosque of Mopti, also known as the Komoguel Mosque, is a stunning example of Sudano-Sahelian architecture located in Mopti, Mali. Built between 1933 and 1935, it stands as a testament to the region's rich cultural and religious heritage. Its unique mud-brick construction and imposing structure make it a must-see landmark.

A brief summary to Grand Mosque of Mopti

  • FRP6+P4H, Mopti, Bougoufie, ML

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
  • Dress modestly and respectfully, as this is a place of worship.
  • Engage with local guides who can provide deeper insights into the mosque’s history and significance.
  • Take time to explore the nearby markets for local crafts and souvenirs.
  • Consider visiting during a religious festival to experience the mosque's vibrant community spirit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Grand Mosque is located in the Komoguel I district, southeast of the town of Mopti. From the Mopti market, head southwest for approximately 1 kilometer. The mosque’s towering structure is easily visible and is a short walk from most central locations.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Mopti. A short taxi ride from anywhere in the city center to the Grand Mosque should cost approximately 1000-3000 CFA. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey. Alternatively, 'moto taxis' are available at a cheaper rate.

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Discover more about Grand Mosque of Mopti

The Grand Mosque of Mopti, or Grande Mosquée de Mopti, is a captivating mosque located in the city of Mopti in the Mopti Region of Mali. Also known as the Komoguel Mosque, it exemplifies the unique Sudano-Sahelian architectural style. This architectural style is characterized by the use of mud-brick construction with decorative elements like toron (wooden beams), buttresses, and pinnacles. The mosque was constructed between 1933 and 1935, on the site of an older mosque dating back to 1908. The design was led by M. Cocheteaux, the French Resident Administrator of the Mopti region, who drew inspiration from the Great Mud Mosque of Djenné. The mosque covers an area of approximately 530 square meters. The mihrab tower reaches a height of 17 meters, while the lateral towers are 13.5 meters tall. The mosque's exterior is characterized by symmetrical facades, corner pillars, and buttresses with elongated points. The north and south entrances feature Djennian portals. The prayer hall consists of four bays parallel to the qibla, each formed by rows of seven pillars. The mosque's western wall mirrors the tripartite arrangement of the eastern facade, with a central massive tower flanked by smaller corner towers. The towers are topped with trapezoidal spires, capped by ceramic caps adorned with two ostrich eggs. Every year, the community comes together to reapply a fresh layer of mud plaster mixed with rice straw, cow dung, shea butter, and néré powder to the mosque. This regular maintenance has resulted in an increase in the thickness of the exterior walls and their more rounded shape over time. Although non-Muslims are not typically allowed inside the mosque, its exterior and unique minaret are worthy of admiration. A local tip is to find someone who will allow you on their roof to get a better view of the mosque. The Grand Mosque of Mopti was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List in 2009 and was listed by the Malian Government as a National Monument in 2005. Restoration efforts were carried out between 2004 and 2006 with the support of the Aga Khan Foundation.

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