Djenne

Djenné is a historic trading town in Mopti Region on the Bani River, at the edge of the Inner Niger Delta. Its "Old Towns," including the Great Mosque, were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. The Great Mosque — the largest mud-brick building in the world, with a first structure on the site dating to around the 13th century and the present building rebuilt in 1907 — is maintained through an annual community re-plastering event known as the Crépissage, usually held in spring, in which much of the town turns out to apply fresh mud (banco) to the exterior. Non-Muslim visitors are generally not permitted inside the mosque.

The security situation in this part of Mali is serious, and Djenné's World Heritage status is currently listed as endangered. UNESCO has cited ongoing conflict in central Mali — including the difficulty of safely carrying out the annual Crépissage — as a direct threat to the site. Check official government travel advisories before any travel here — this guide describes the place for reference only, not as a current destination.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Bamako (BKO IATA).

• Great Mosque of Djenné — The world's largest mud-brick building, a UNESCO World Heritage site (currently listed as endangered) rebuilt in 1907 on a site with mosque history dating to around the 13th century. Non-Muslim visitors cannot enter the interior.

• Bamako — National capital