The Largest Adobe Structure in the World

Explore the Mosque of Djenne in 3D

Loading 3D model

Djenne Mosque by Zamani Project, University of Cape TownZamani Project

The Great Mosque of Djenné is one of the largest monuments in the world built from blocks of adobe and is considered a major work of the Sudano-Sahelian architectural style. 

The present Mosque was built as late as 1907 but it was reconstructed on the ruins of the first Mosque which was built in the 14th century, at about the same time as most of the cathedrals of Europe were built. 

It is 20 meters high and has a square base. The roof is supported by a 100 pillars; it has 104 ventilation holes and 36 doors.

This wall, also known as a qibla, is the wall faced during prayers, as it indicates the direction of Mecca.

The three central towers are minarets, the central one containing a special room from which a crier used to repeat the words of the Imam to the crowd in the square outside.

Djenne Mosque by Zamani Project, University of Cape TownZamani Project

Credits: Story

This model was captured by Zamani Project in 2006, and was artificially textured. 

Credits: All media
The story featured may in some cases have been created by an independent third party and may not always represent the views of the institutions, listed below, who have supplied the content.
Explore more
Google apps