A tour of the great architectural works in the Black Continent

Africa – a land as pristine, mysterious and deep as the endless deserts or dense forests here. But beyond the image of wild nature, the black continent is also the cradle of ancient civilizations, where countless timeless architectural works are preserved. From majestic pyramids to unique churches, from coastal fortresses to desert palaces, each stone, each dome is a living page of history. Let's explore a tour of architectural works in Africa – where the past and present are intertwined in each eternal shape.

1. The Pyramids of Giza

The first image could be none other than the Giza pyramid (Image source: Collected)

When it comes to architecture in Africa, the first image that comes to mind is the Giza pyramids standing tall in the Egyptian desert. Built more than 4,500 years ago, this cluster of three great pyramids is the last remaining wonder of the ancient world .

Each block of stone in the pyramid can weigh up to several tons, stacked on top of each other with incredible precision. The Great Pyramid of Khufu – the largest of the three, is a symbol of royal power and reverence for the Pharaohs. When the desert sunlight covers every corner, the pyramid seems to glow, telling the story of one of the most brilliant empires in human history.

2. Lalibela Rock Church

Lalibela Rock Church is an extraordinary testament to architectural engineering and profound faith (Photo source: Collected)

Nestled in the red rocks of the Ethiopian highlands, the Lalibela Rock Churches are an extraordinary testament to architectural engineering and profound faith. These churches were not built from the ground up, but were carved directly into the ground from a single block of rock – a rare feat in the history of world architecture.

This African structure is not only a place of worship but also a sacred pilgrimage site. The Church of St. George, with its giant cross shape, is the most prominent masterpiece of the 11 churches. At dusk, the light shines through the small windows, transforming the space into a mystical dream.

3. Djenné Mosque

Djenné Mosque has the unique beauty of clay and wood (Photo source: Collected)

Located in Mali, in the middle of the arid Sahel, the Djenné Mosque is an African structure that exudes the unique beauty of clay and wood. Constructed entirely from a mixture of mud, straw and palm wood, it is the largest earthen building in the world.

The architecture of Djenné is not only a testament to the high level of craftsmanship, but also a cultural symbol of a community living in harmony with nature. What is special is that each year, the people gather to restore the church in a vibrant festival – where traditions and skills are preserved through generations.

4. Royal Palace of Fès

The Royal Palace is a splendid embodiment of Moorish architecture (Photo source: Collected)

In the heart of Fès, Morocco – an ancient city imbued with the breath of medieval Islam, the Royal Palace (Dar el Makhzen) is a splendid embodiment of Moorish architecture. With its massive golden gates and intricately carved brick walls, the palace is like a precious gem in the heart of the ancient Medina.

As an architectural work in Africa bearing the strong imprint of Western Islamic culture, Dar el Makhzen not only reminds of the power of the Alaouite dynasty but is also a living testament to the harmonious combination of aesthetics and spirituality.

5. Elmina Fort

Elmina Fort stands tall like a historical scar against the blue sky (Photo source: Collected)

On the coast of Ghana, Fort Elmina stands like a historical scar against the blue sky. It is one of Africa’s oldest European-built forts – started in the 15th century by the Portuguese and later taken over by the Dutch.

This African structure bears the painful traces of the slave trade period, when thousands of people were taken through the “Door of No Return” into hell. But today, Elmina is no longer a symbol of sadness but a place to remind and honor the survival power of the African people.

6. Al Quaraouiyine University

Al Quaraouiyine is the oldest university still in operation in the world (Photo source: Collected)

The city of Fès is not only famous for its Royal Palace, but also for being home to Al Quaraouiyine – the oldest university still in operation in the world, founded in 859. With its emerald dome, blue-tiled corridors, ancient library and serene prayer halls, this is an architectural work in Africa that exudes the elegant beauty of wisdom and faith. Al Quaraouiyine not only taught religious knowledge, but also served as a center of learning for centuries in the Arab world.

Every architectural work in Africa is not just a building, but a soul – connecting the past with the present, religion with art, nature with people. From rock-cut cathedrals, pyramids towering in the desert to dusty libraries, all weave together the mythical tapestry of the continent. If you are looking for not only beauty, but also historical and emotional depth, then a journey to explore the architectural works of Africa is the door to unforgettable memories.

Source : https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/cong-trinh-kien-truc-o-chau-phi-v17345.aspx