The Tata of Sikasso, also known as Tarakoko locally, stands as a striking testament to the ingenuity and fortitude of the people of Sikasso. Initially constructed during the reign of Tiéba Traoré, the king of Kénédougou, from 1877 to 1897, this formidable series of ramparts was a response to the relentless raids of Samory Touré. The visionary leader, Tiéba Traoré, initiated the construction of the exterior fortress, which spanned an impressive 9 kilometers (5.6 miles). This outer defense was characterized by its immense thickness, measuring 6 meters (20 feet) at the base and 2 meters (6 feet 7 inches) at the top, with a towering height varying between 4 and 6 meters (13 and 20 feet).
As the fortress expanded and evolved, Tiéba’s brother and successor, Babemba Traoré, further fortified the structure, enhancing its resilience and strategic significance. The complex also featured a middle fortress with more delicate walls, intentionally designed to demarcate distinct areas for merchants, soldiers, and nobles, reflecting the organization and hierarchy within the city. Within this elaborate defense system, an innermost enclosure surrounded the Dionfoutou, the regal domain inhabited by the king and his family, safeguarding the heart of the city with unparalleled vigilance.
Crafted from dry stone, gravel, and mud-brick, the encompassing walls stretched across an impressive 41 hectares, serving as an enduring symbol of strength and unity for the people of Sikasso. Today, the remnants of this awe-inspiring fortress still grace the landscape of Sikasso, weaving through various neighborhoods such as Mancourani, Médine, Wayerma, Bougoula town, and Fulaso, a testament to the enduring legacy of this magnificent stronghold.
The Tata of Sikasso not only served as a bulwark against external threats but also encapsulated the spirit and resilience of a community united in the face of adversity. Each stone, each layer of earth, and each meticulously crafted wall stands as a testament to the unwavering determination and brilliance of the individuals who shaped Sikasso’s history. The story of the Tata of Sikasso is a story of unwavering strength, remarkable innovation, and the enduring legacy of a people bound together in purpose and fortitude.
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