Ounjougou, Archaeological complex in Dogon Country, Mali
Ounjougou is an archaeological complex in Dogon Country located along the Yamé River valley, featuring numerous excavation sites spread across the Bandiagara Plateau. The place reveals layers of earth and stone that record different periods of human settlement.
The site shows human presence dating back around 150,000 years, with settlements from very ancient periods recorded in its layers. Evidence in the earth tells the story of people living here across long stretches of time.
Archaeological discoveries at Ounjougou include the earliest pottery found in Africa, marking a significant technological advancement in human civilization.
The site can be visited with a guide who shows you through the different excavation areas. The best time to visit is during the drier months when the paths are easier to reach.
The site contains multiple sediment layers with evidence of ancient pottery, including some of the oldest known ceramics from Africa. These discoveries show how people were working with clay thousands of years ago.
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