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Burkina Faso

Kirikongo

Iron Age village with multiple mounds

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

Kirikongo is an Iron Age archaeological site located in the Mouhoun Bend region of Burkina Faso. The site features thirteen mounds representing separate households spread over a thirty-seven hectare area, reflecting a village setup. It was occupied from around 100 CE to 1700 CE, showing a progression from early single household settlements to a more stratified society with complex social structures. Evidence of iron smelting and ground stone production indicates advanced agricultural processing. The site's significance is further highlighted by its unique architectural features, including ritualized structures and specialized ceramic production, indicative of social and cultural transitions by 1100 CE. Kirikongo provides valuable insights into the cultural development and regional interactions of the ancestral Bwa people.

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Animal Husbandry Features

Animal Pens

Burial and Funerary Structures

Graves

Industrial and Craft Structures

Kilns

Religious and Ritual Structures

Sacrificial Pits

Agricultural and Land Use Features

Cattle Pens

Domestic and Habitation Structures

HousesVillages

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Burkina Faso
Source
Wikipedia