BCEAO Bank Malian Headquarters is the tallest building in Mali. Unique for its Neo-Sudanic architecture, the tower is modeled on the Sudano-Sahelian architecture of the famous Mosques of Djenné and Timbuktu. It’s exterior surface matches surrounding soil giving the tower the appearance said to resemble an anthillordesert mirage.
Timbuktu (Mali, Africa) was an important center for trade and islamic culture between the 13. and 16. century. The city became rich through the trade with salt and gold and one of the first universities in world history was founded here. Since no stones could be burned, buildings and houses were built of clay, which also require restoration after every rain. The slave trade is on of the darker chapters in Timbuktus long history since the city was an important base in Western Africa.
All times and events occuring simultaneously in each one. Their history, conquerors, triumphs, and declines. Part of a bigger series exploring cities and their ideas.
At the gates of the Sahara. The city of 333 saints. Once a center of culture and trade, house of universities and riches in the Mali and Songhai empires. As it once emerged from the sands, now being swallowed slowly by them.
