Ancient Dogon Village, Mali, West Africa

The Dogon people, an ethnic group in Mali, West Africa, are known for their ancient villages situated along the Bandiagara Escarpment. These villages, often referred to as “ancient Dogon villages,” are recognized for their unique architecture, cultural traditions, and the significance of the cliffside setting.

The Dogon have maintained a traditional lifestyle, and their villages are designed to blend with the natural environment. The structures include houses with flat roofs made from mud and thatch, granaries, and communal meeting areas. The cliffside location served both defensive and spiritual purposes, with some villages featuring intricate rock carvings and ceremonial spaces.

These Dogon villages, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, are not only a testament to the architectural ingenuity of the Dogon people but also embody their rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The Dogon are known for their cosmological beliefs, expressed through art, rituals, and oral traditions.