Architecture as a Conservation and Expression tool of a Fundamental Tradition: The Tammari Architecture in West Africa

Abstract

It is generally acknowledged that human being is the measure unit in Architecture. However, ancient architectures in general and at some extent religious architecture don’t necessarily follow that rule. They have their own typical features based on the beliefs related to them. The objective of this paper is to contribute to the discussion of the metaphysical function of humans’ dwellings. This investigation analyses the typical home in a Batammariba village (Togo, West Africa), which, more than a simple dwelling, is the most complete expression of their culture, cosmogony and traditional spirituality. In this context, the research tries to identify different metaphysical aspects based on the main issues concerning the design process and the construction. It aims at lighting up how, more than the majestic looking of its physical features, the peculiarity of the Tata Tamberma, may be its strong concentration of the fundamental doctrine of the Batammariba people.