Most people are familiar with Western architectural styles like Baroque, Byzantine, and Modernist. And the Asian architecture of the pagodas and lavishly looking mosques are on everyone’s travel bucket list. But twitter user @1ncognito___ decided to share samples of African Architecture that are often overlooked and we must admit, we never realized Africa was so spectacular.
Show Africa Some Love
Twitter user, @1ncognito___ wasn’t happy that architecture from other cultures were being showcased while African architecture had been sidelined throughout history. So, he decided to share images that are utterly mind-opening!
Nubian Perfection
He shared a photo of architecture belonging to the Nubians, a group of Africans found in Sudan and southern Egypt. Their civilization is believed to date back to the early beginnings of human civilization. So, they had plenty of time to perfect their architecture.
Before the Colonization
Pre-Colonial Africa had approximately 10,000 states with various languages and customs. Some of the well-known empires were the Zulu Kingdom, the Mossi Kingdom, and the Asante Union. They reigned supreme until European colonists came, but some cultures survived and so did their styles.
Madagascar Architecture
The massive island nation of Madagascar, off the eastern coast of Africa, contains eye-catching architecture that is eerily reminiscent to the Southern Borneo, which some believe is where Madagascar’s ancestors originated from.
Another Stunning Piece
There are many beautiful architectural wonders waiting to be discovered in South Africa. Some of the buildings have the most intricate details you’d ever seen before. So don’t forget to bring your camera!
The Mud Mosques of the Sahel
The community living in Djenné is responsible for keeping The Mud Mosques of the Sahel properly maintained during their annual festival. The gathering includes repairing damage to the structure caused by erosion, temperature, and humidity as well as celebrating with food and music.
Nigerian Architecture
Nigerian architecture offers an eclectic mix of various types of styles that range from traditional vernacular to modern construction, and it’s truly innovative.
The Great Mosque of Djenné
The Great Mosque of Djenné is featured on the coat of arms of Mali and is an invaluable cultural icon for the town of Djenné as well as the entire country.
Modern Sudano-Sahelian Architecture
You might not learn about this place in school. But this tower is a fine example of modern Sudano-Sahelian Architecture, which looks more like something that came out of a science fiction movie.
The Afro-futuristic Architecture
While it might look like a building in Wakanda taken from the film “Black Panther,” this futuristic structure is legit. The Monolith is located in the capital city of Luanda and was dedicated to Angola’s first president Agostinho Neto.
Somali Architecture
Somali architecture brings the best of both worlds together by showing an infusion of Somali and Western styles to modern structures like temples, mosques, citadels, and cities.
Swahili Architecture
Swahili architecture continues to thrive throughout the eastern and southeastern parts of Africa. But it is more commonly visible in the urban areas of Zanzibar, Lamu, and Mombasa.
Afro Federal Architecture
Another prime example of architectural distinctiveness was found in Afro Federal architecture. This just proves that there is a rich culture full of wonders in the African continent eagerly waiting for the rest of the world to discover and appreciate.
