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Culture/Heritage
The rich mosaic of cultural heritage derives from the ethnic diversity that
is portrayed by the Mandinka, Fulani, Serer, Tukulor, Wolof and Jola people.
The ancestors of some of these tribes migrated from as far as the Niger
River Valley. The ancestors of the Tukulorís, who founded the Tekrur
Kingdom, had extensive contact with the Berbers from North Africa due to
the Trans-Saharan trade. This commercial interaction played a central role
in the advent of the Islamic religion in West Africa. Today, the Senegalese
religious landscape is comprised mainly of Sunni Muslims. The Great Mosque
at Touba is a destination point for religious pilgrimages.
The Senegambian region was an important source of Slaves during the Transatlantic
Slave Trade. During that era, the Portuguese, Dutch and French, all had
an active involvement in the region. The presence of European influence
is very evident in the architectural design of the coastal forts utilized
in the Slave Trade and other commercial activities. The infamous Goree Island,
ìMaison Des Esclavesî which lies less than 2 miles from Dakar
is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dedicated as a memorial to the abomination,
which was Slavery. The view from the ìDoor of No Return.î was
the last one of Africa etched into the memory of slaves shipped to the Americas.
The Forts on the island serves as Historic Museums.
French influence can be seen beyond the architectural design of the carved
wooden balconies and verandas of French colonial homes, the French flavor
in Senegalese cuisine and French music in popular culture. Senegalese musicians
Baba Maal and Yossou Nour serve as international ambassadors to the region
through performances at various international venues. The country also has
a noticeable amount of Arab influences.
Senegal has a penchant for retention and preservation of its tradition.
This is evident in the everyday life of its people. The Casamance region
is inhabited by the Diolas, Mandjakes and Balantes who perform their Initiation
ceremonies in the ìSacred Woodsî Some of these ceremonies take
place annually whilst others take place once every 30 ñ 40 years.
Senegalís Integrated Regional Tourism concept affords tourist with
an opportunity to live in village huts exactly design like those inhabited
by the indigenous people. Visitors enjoy the local cuisine prepared by village
women, view the vitality of traditional dances and ceremonies and enjoy
the serenity of village life. Eastern Senegal is also a traditional haven.
The Bedik, Bassari and Tenda people of the Kedougou region have retained
their customs. This is evident through their renowned initiation ceremonies
complete with magnificent mask.
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