Kankou Moussa Mosque- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

The Kankou Moussa Mosque in Gao, Mali, is an archaeological site marking the remains of a 14th-century mosque commissioned by Emperor Kankou Moussa upon his return from Mecca in 1324. Constructed by Andalusian architect Es Saheli, it was among the earliest major architectural projects in the Mali Empire, predating Timbuktu's Djingareyber Mosque. Excavations between 1950 and 2003 revealed burnt brick structures and artifacts, highlighting Gao's significance as a Saharan trade hub from the 7th to 16th centuries. The site preserves 14th-century building techniques and stands as evidence of urban development, Islamic influence, and trans-Saharan commerce during Mali's imperial peak. Its scale and well-documented history make it a key archaeological landmark in the region.