Djenné: why the dwellings are on raised mounds

Useful to know

In the old towns of Djenne, Mali, the dwellings are adapted to seasonal flooding by placing on raised mounds called togueres. UNESCO also connects the city to commercial networks across the Sahara. [1]

This is an example of how level selection is part of the architectural solution, not just site preparation. In pictures and cuts, compare the base of the building with the surrounding terrain. Do not derive accurate protection against any flood from only the apparent height. For such an assessment, local water levels, construction data and the condition of the particular home are needed.