The Great Hut
A conical thatched roof.
Harouna674 — CC0 · Josephine Lifanje — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Harouna674 — CC0 · Harouna674 — CC0 · Harouna674 — CC0
The Bandjoun Chiefdom is a traditional compound in Bamileke country in western Cameroon, spread over several hectares and home to the paramount chief of the Bandjoun people. It is famous for its Great Hut, with a huge conical thatched roof and carved wooden pillars. It is one of the most visited sites in Bamileke country. The palace dates from the 17th century, and fourteen kings have reigned here. The chiefdom's theme is forge, art and power. It holds a royal forest, many huts, a royal courtyard and buildings arranged in the traditional Bamileke way. A modern museum in the compound tells the dynasty's story and displays thrones and masks. At the centre you see a huge square-based hut with a tall conical roof of brown thatch, its walls ringed by wooden pillars carved with human and animal figures. Rows of smaller huts with red pyramid roofs line the red earth road. At the entrance stands a large arch between two small towers. It is about 1 km from central Bandjoun in a straight line and about 39 km from Dschang lake. Visits go with a guide, so respect restricted areas. Ask before photographing people.
A conical thatched roof.
Human and animal figures.
Red roofs.
Pete Bandjoun, West Region, Cameroon
The paramount chief of the Bandjoun people and his family.
Yes with a guide, respecting restricted areas.