Tiébélé Royal Court, Traditional castle in Tiébélé Department, Burkina Faso.
The royal court is a circular compound of earthen and wooden structures surrounded by high perimeter walls that connect multiple residential areas. The buildings are built closely together and form a self-contained living complex for the royal family and court staff.
The Kassena people established their settlement in this region during the 15th century and built the court as their administrative and cultural center. The compound developed over centuries and reflects the continuous occupation and importance of this ethnic group in the area.
The women of the community shape the appearance of the buildings through their handiwork, painting geometric patterns with natural pigments in red, white, and black. These decorations are part of everyday life and reflect the artistic skills passed down through generations.
A local guide is essential to explore the court and understand its history and structure fully. The best way to reach the site is from the town of Po or from the capital, with travel times varying depending on your starting point.
The doorways of the buildings are intentionally built low, making it difficult for intruders since they had to duck to enter. This design element reveals early defensive strategies used by the Kassena against potential attackers.
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