Gao-Saney – Trans-Saharan Entrepôt & Tomb of Askia's Pilgrims

Why it mattersKey Trans-Saharan (c. 600–1300 CE; peak 9th–12th c as Kawkaw) site illustrating Songhai–Berber (Gao empire; Almoravid links) urbanism and niger river trans-saharan gold–salt port of kawkaw described by al-bakri.

Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.

Built

Zarma–Songhai riverside port c. 600 CE; stone trans-Saharan entrepôt 9th c

Period

Trans-Saharan (c. 600–1300 CE; peak 9th–12th c as Kawkaw)

Culture

Songhai–Berber (Gao empire; Almoravid links)

Purpose

Niger River trans-Saharan gold–salt port of Kawkaw described by al-Bakri

Excavation

Excavated

1. Zarma–Songhai riverside port c. 600 CE; stone trans-Saharan entrepôt 9th c

   Initial construction / foundation

2. 20th century

   Modern archaeological survey and excavation

• Gao-Saney — Principal Gate

  gate

  Main gate and rampart section at Gao-Saney – Trans-Saharan Entrepôt & Tomb of Askia's Pilgrims

  16.2706° N · 0.0506° E

• Gao-Saney — Central Forum/Basilica

  forum

  Forum–basilica complex at Gao-Saney – Trans-Saharan Entrepôt & Tomb of Askia's Pilgrims

  16.2700° N · 0.0500° E

• Gao-Saney — Baths/Cisterns

  baths

  Baths and cistern cluster at Gao-Saney – Trans-Saharan Entrepôt & Tomb of Askia's Pilgrims

  16.2694° N · 0.0494° E