The Great Mosque of Djenné in Mali is widely recognized as the largest mud-brick (adobe) structure in the world. Originally constructed in the 13th century and rebuilt in 1907, the mosque represents one of the finest examples of Sudano-Sahelian architecture.Built entirely from sun-baked earth bricks and coated with mud plaster, the structure requires annual community maintenance known as the Crépissage de la Grand Mosquée. During this event, residents of Djenné collectively repair and reinforce the mosque’s walls, preserving both the building and a centuries-old cultural tradition.The Great Mosque of Djenné is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and remains one of the most iconic architectural landmarks in Africa.
Record Information
Record Type: Lifetime
Temporal Anchor: 1907 (current structure)
Location: Djenné, Mali
Measurement / Scale: Largest mud-brick structure in the world
Category: Heritage
Status: Submitted