Grande Mosquée, Religious landmark in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.
Grande Mosquée is a house of prayer in Bobo-Dioulasso with two clay minarets rising from walls built of mud brick. Its interior is divided by nine aisles running lengthwise, while wooden beams and corrugated metal compose the roof structure.
Construction began in 1812 following an agreement between Islamic leader Almamy Sidiki Sanou and the King of Sia, finishing in 1832. The building took shape over two phases, with the older section completed first and additional aisles added later.
The mosque serves as a central meeting place where the Islamic community gathers for daily prayers and religious instruction. It plays a vital role in the spiritual life of Bobo-Dioulasso's residents.
Visits are usually possible outside prayer times, and visitors should respect these occasions by planning accordingly. An outdoor plaza allows for exploration, and guides are available to explain the space in English or French.
The prayer hall contains two distinct sections built at different times, showing differences in construction methods between them. The older part with seven aisles reveals the original building style, while the two added aisles represent a later expansion.
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