Sunday, February 28, 2016

Islam in the North of Ghana

Larabanga Mosque

        
        The Mosque at Larabanga is perhaps the oldest building in Ghana but nobody agrees on how old it is, or even who built it. Locals use the year 1421 and accredit the construction to the Islamic trader who was called Ayuba. In Accra at the National Museum the Larabanga display credits Imam Bramah with building the mosque over the period of 1643-1675. 
         Larabanga is the most holy of the mud and thatch mosques in Ghana. Over the centuries it has served as a surrogate Mecca for Ghanaian Muslims but it is difficult to verify. It is very old and very interesting and we happened to be there on a day when there was a sacrifice taking place. We were not really welcomed it appeared but that is the beauty of not understanding the language.




This tree is reported to have been there since the mosque was built.








The village around the mosque.







This woman is the oldest in the village. I have never seen another person with snow white hair.

Inside a home.

Storage jars and cooking stove.

Birthing bowl.





Hard to see.


Trying to get a better view.





Best show in town. Where are your little ones?


Carrying off ones portion.

The prized hooves.


1 comment:

  1. Well, we are home and you are still having an adventure - it's all good! We look forward to your return but enjoy your last few weeks!!

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