The Tomb of Askia, located in Gao, Mali, is believed to be the burial place of Askia Muhammad I, one of the most important emperors of the Songhai Empire. It was built at the end of the fifteenth century and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

UNESCO describes the tomb as an excellent example of traditional mud-building methods used in the West African Sahel region. The site includes the pyramidal tomb, two mosques, a cemetery, and an area for gatherings. Standing 17 meters (56 feet) tall, it is the largest pre-colonial building in Gao. It shows a specific type of architectural style known as Sudano-Sahelian, which later influenced buildings in other parts of the region.

Recent changes to the site include expanding the mosque buildings in the 1960s and 1970s, and adding a wall around the area in 1999. The structure has been regularly replastered over time, a necessary step to keep mud buildings strong. Electricity was added in the early 2000s, allowing for fans, lights, and a loudspeaker on top.

The Tomb of Askia is still used as a mosque and a public cultural center in Gao. The site and surrounding area are protected by national and local laws.

History

Askia Mohammed was the first emperor of the Songhai Empire and helped expand its territory. As a deeply religious Muslim, he felt it was his duty to make a pilgrimage to Mecca. He returned from this journey in 1497 or 1498. He brought back materials for his tomb, including mud and wood from Mecca. The caravan that carried these materials is said to have had "thousands of camels." The tomb was built like a house, with multiple rooms and passageways. It was closed after Askia Mohammed died.

Although only Askia Mohammed was buried inside the tomb, other Askias were buried in the courtyard surrounding it.