BANDJOUN: TOWN IN THE KOUNG-KHI DEPARTMENT OF THE WEST REGION, CAMEROON.
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This large hut is a symbolic icon of the people of BANDJOUN and it measures 17 metres high and was once the residence of the Chief. It was built by King Notouom I about four centuries ago. Since then it has been regularly restored. Its attic is used as a granary for reserves of wood, peanuts and corn as with other huts. The hut contains 3 rooms and a meeting room decorated with lion skins - symbol of the Chief, panther skins - symbol of great nobles, and doors with engravings of lizards - symbol of lower notables. The hut is supported by carved pillars with those in the middle the oldest, having survived three fires that occurred in the chiefdom.
ARCHITECTURE
BANDJOUN is well known for its fine architectural craftsmanship and these designs have been well preserved over the centuries.
The facades are made of bamboo interwoven with plant fibres with some featuring geometric patterns. The doors are framed with carved panels are elevated 50 cm above the ground so that runoff and animals can not enter. The whole is surmounted by a conical roof which is heavy and thick enough to not let raindrops filter through.
The outside of the hut has been changed despite the desire of some BAMILÉKÉ notables who wish to keep the old local architecture. The thatched roof has been replaced by a corrugated iron roof and the walls are not covered with bamboo curtains. In the inside of the huts, however, everything remains the same. The fireplace is at the centre of the main room; three stones are enough to support the pots. All the furniture is made of bamboo such as the ladder to climb to the attic as well as the shelves for household utensils, beds, and stools.
The carvings on the pillars and on the ancient doors are over 400 years old. They were made during the era of Kind Notouom I and with very artisanal equipment some of which can be found in the museums. The are made of shaped up stones and sandstone.
Thanks for reading this short piece about BANDJOUN. ❤️
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