Moti Magri (Pearl Hill) | Udaipur

The Grande Mosquée de Ouagadougou is a significant religious structure located in Ouagadougou, the capital city of Burkina Faso.

Visual Characteristics

This mosque features a large, central dome constructed from concrete. The exterior walls are finished in a pale, sandy-colored stucco. The minaret, a prominent feature, rises to a considerable height, topped with a finial. The architectural style incorporates elements of Sudano-Sahelian design, characterized by its geometric patterns and flat roofs.

Location & Access Logistics

The mosque is situated in the central district of Ouagadougou, approximately 1.5 kilometers south of Place de la Nation. Access is via Avenue de l'Indépendance, turning south onto Rue 12.18. Limited street parking is available in the immediate vicinity. Public transport routes serving the city center will bring visitors close to the mosque; local taxis are also readily available.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Grande Mosquée de Ouagadougou began in the 1960s, with its completion in 1973. It was built under the direction of the first President of Burkina Faso, Maurice Yaméogo, with support from Saudi Arabian funding. Its original purpose was to serve as a central place of worship for the Muslim community in Ouagadougou and as a symbol of the nation's religious identity.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the mosque's exterior architecture. Entry into the prayer hall is restricted to Muslims during prayer times. Non-Muslims may observe from the courtyard. Photography of the exterior is permitted. Respectful attire is required for all visitors.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the mosque complex. Limited shaded areas are present in the courtyard. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good in this central urban area. Food vendors are typically found in the surrounding market areas, a short walk from the mosque.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon light provides optimal illumination of the mosque's facade. The best months for visiting Ouagadougou, with generally drier weather, are from November to February. There are no tide-specific considerations for visiting this inland structure.

Facts & Legends

The mosque's construction was a significant undertaking, intended to be one of the largest religious buildings in the country at the time of its completion. A specific local legend or "secret" tip for visitors is to note the intricate geometric patterns incorporated into the mosque's design, which are said to hold symbolic meaning within Islamic art.

Nearby Landmarks

• Grand Marché (0.8km Northwest)
• Musée National du Burkina Faso (1.2km West)
• Palais de la Culture (1.5km North)
• Cathédrale de l'Immaculée Conception (1.8km North)