Lideta Market, Ethiopia - 2017. This shopping centre was built in Ethiopia's capital, Addis Ababa, with lightweight concrete. The considered design includes a perforated façade that controls the flow of natural light and ventilation within. Moreover, the cut-out pattern decorating the building's gleaming white shell imitates a traditional Ethiopian fabric. (BBC)
BBC
Africa’s iconic architecture in 12 buildings
While the pyramids of Egypt are recognised around the world, much of Africa’s architecture remains unknown – something architects Adil Dalbai and Livingstone Mukasa hope to change.
They are part of the team that has recently published the seven-volume Architectural Guide Sub-Saharan Africa. Their in-depth study encompasses buildings from earlier eras, the colonial period – like the recently renovated railway station (above) built in Senegal’s capital, Dakar, in 1910 – to more modern masterpieces.
Here are 12 of the most innovative, historic and iconic entries:
Palace of Emperor Fasilides, Ethiopia – early 17th Century
This palace is located in Ethiopia’s northern city of Gondar, within a fortified compound known as the “Fasil Ghebbi” (Royal Enclosure).
The site includes some 20 palaces, royal buildings, elaborately decorated churches, monasteries and unique buildings.
The design of these buildings were influenced by the baroque style brought to Gondar by Jesuit missionaries.
See the full list at BBC.com »
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