House of Artisans (Maison des Artisans)

The House of Artisans (Maison des Artisans) in Bamako is the premier destination for traditional Malian crafts and a spirited center for artistic creation. Established in 1933, it is located adjacent to the capital's Grand Marché and is housed in an impressive neo-Sudanese style complex featuring clay-brick aesthetics and intricate woodwork. The facility hosts numerous open workshops where master craftsmen produce high-quality leather goods, silver jewelry, wood carvings, and the world-renowned Bogolan (mud cloth) textiles. Visitors have the unique opportunity to witness these artisans at work, employing techniques that have been passed down through generations. The Maison des Artisans serves not only as a marketplace but also as a vital training ground for young apprentices learning their trade. The items produced here are celebrated for their authenticity and represent the rich cultural diversity of Mali's many ethnic groups. A visit to this center provides profound insight into the material culture and artistic soul of the nation, making it a cornerstone of Bamako's landscape.

Nearby cities

Bamako

The vibrant capital of Mali on the banks of the Niger River is the political and economic center of the country.

History & landmarks

Sacred Heart Cathedral

The most important Roman Catholic church in Bamako, a symbol of the city's Christian heritage.

BCEAO Tower Bamako

A modern high-rise in Bamako housing the headquarters of the Central Bank of West African States in Mali.

Modibo Keïta Memorial

A monumental complex in Bamako honoring the first president of independent Mali, Modibo Keïta.

Bamako Grand Mosque

An important Islamic place of worship in the center of Bamako, characterized by its modern white architecture.

Hippopotamus Monument

A striking sculpture in the center of Bamako depicting the hippopotamus – the symbol behind the city's name ('Bama-ko').

Martyrs Monument

A prominent monument in Bamako dedicated to the victims of the 1991 revolution.

Monument to the Heroes of the Black Army

An important monument in Bamako dedicated to the African soldiers who fought in the First World War.

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National Museum of Mali

The most significant archaeological and ethnological museum in the country, located in the capital Bamako.

More places

Artisan House Bamako

A historic building in the center of Bamako, founded in 1933 to promote traditional Malian crafts.

Modibo Keita Memorial

A prominent memorial in Bamako dedicated to the first president of Mali, honoring the country's history of independence.

Independence Monument Bamako

An important landmark in the capital marking Mali's liberation from French colonial rule in 1960.

Bamako Zoological Garden

A popular destination for families featuring native animal species.

Bamako marketplace variety

A lively place where children can see colorful goods from all over Mali.

Bamako Industrial Zone

The largest concentration of manufacturing and processing companies in Mali, located on the outskirts of the capital.

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Koulouba Escarpment

A prominent hill relief overlooking Bamako, on whose plateau important government buildings are located.

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Sotuba Hydroelectric Plant

A smaller but important run-of-the-river hydroelectric plant on the Niger River, located directly in the capital Bamako.