The Djenné Mosque: Form, Function and Architecture

Abstract

The article offers an in-depth typological study of the iconic mosque located in Djenné, Mali, the heart of West Africa. The study aims to investigate the architectural typology and universal forms used in mosque construction, highlighting its historical evolution, cultural relevance, and lasting architectural traditions. The study traces the evolution of mosque architecture in Djenné over the centuries, its form and functions. It illustrates the innovative adaptation of local materials and construction methods in crafting remarkable edifices. In addition, this study examines the cultural and social dimensions of the Djenné mosque while showcasing its role as a symbol of cultural identity and community cohesion. Qualitative research method has been employed to explore the influence of local culture on mosque architecture. The study utilized document analysis of existing literature along with the theoretical framework provided by Nader Ardalan in his work “The Visual Language of Symbolic Form: A Preliminary Study of Mosque Architecture” to uncover the nuances of how regional and cultural factors shape the architectural form and spatial organization. Moreover, the generic forms and principles of spatial organization described by Nader Ardalan have been analyzed in the context of Djenné mosque. The research concludes that the interplay between universal architectural forms and regional cultural influences is a fascinating aspect of Islamic architecture. While certain essential elements are common across the Muslim world, the ways in which these components are adapted and interpreted can vary significantly based on local contexts. This dynamic is particularly evident in the Djenné Mosque. Despite adhering to the general typology of a trabeated mosque, it exhibits several unique features and improvisations that are reflective of the local Sudano-Sahelian culture such as the building’s mud-brick structure, small oculi piercing the flat terraced roof, reliance on daylight as a design strategy, flanking quoins and ostrich eggs at the top of pillars. In conclusion, the typological analysis of West African mosque in Djenné provides valuable insights into the architectural legacy of Mali and West African zone entirely.