La nécropole aux amants petrifies. Ruines mégalithiques de Wanar (Région de Kaffrine, Sénégal)

Recent archaeological investigations at the megalithic necropolis of Wanar, Senegal, have revealed significant insights into the funerary practices and societal structures of West African protohistoric societies. The study, conducted between 2008 and 2017, identified six distinct monuments, characterized by their unique monolith designs—short and squat to the north, and narrow and elongated to the south—which were constructed between the 11th and 13th centuries AD. These findings challenge existing paradigms about megalithic traditions in Senegal and Gambia, suggesting a more complex and nuanced understanding of these ancient societies. The research employed a combination of paleoenvironmental analysis, historical data integration, and detailed archaeological observations to reconstruct the site's evolution as a village dedicated to the dead, featuring stone houses and reflecting deferred funeral rites akin to contemporary West African traditions. This work marks a pivotal advancement in our knowledge of megalith builders and their cultural practices.

Luc, L., Matar, N., Adrien, D., Jean-Paul, C., Aziz, B., Pierre, L., Selim, D., & Laurent, Q. (Eds.). (2024). La nécropole aux amants petrifies. Ruines mégalithiques de Wanar (Région de Kaffrine, Sénégal). https://doi.org/10.32028/9781803277653