Objectives
- analyze the condition of Timbuktu's 3 main mosques
- provide on-site training for craftsmen and technicians involved in mosque conservation.
Timbuktu's 3 great mosques have been on the World Heritage List since 1988, and are an integral part of this mythical ancient city whose name is steeped in legend and history. Djingarey Ber, the oldest and largest of the three mosques, was built in 1325. The other two mosques are those of Sidi Yahiya and Sankoré, which became a prestigious university in the 14th century, spreading its Koranic culture and knowledge throughout Sudan. Although these buildings are made of perishable materials (earth, soft stones, wood, etc.), the mosques have stood the test of time thanks to the dedication of the masons' guilds and the involvement of the town's entire population in the annual work. The mosques are still in use and continue to benefit from traditional maintenance practices.
Training
- 110 professionals trained in preventive conservation techniques on the sites of the 3 mosques
Conservation
- 1,500 man-days of conservation work carried out on the 3 mosques (drainage, walls, roofs, sand removal...)
- promotion of the masons' guild, true architects and master builders of the mosques
- development of new technical details (skylights for improved lighting and ventilation)
- acquisition of basic tools
Management
- recommendations concerning the role of the Timbuktu cultural mission
- identification of the need for a site management plan.
Partners
Mission culturelle de Tombouctou, Direction Nationale du Patrimoine Culturel, Ministère de la Culture du Mali, Corporation des maçons de Tombouctou, Municipalité de Tombouctou, Conseils de gestion des mosquées, Imams des 3 grandes mosquées, UNESCO - World Heritage Centre.
