Crocodile Pools:
There are 3 sacred crocodile pools in The Gambia i.e.
Folonko in Kartong, Berending and Katchikally in Bakau.
They are mainly fertility shrines where, for over a
long period of time, people have sought help for their
difficulties. Infertile women would bring kola nuts
as offerings in order to overcome their infertility;
men to turn back bad luck in business; worried parents
who seek protection for their offspring during the rite
of circumcision and wrestlers to gain victory and more.
Other Holy Sites:
 Senneh-Mentering
is a sacred coppice located on the cliffs overlooking
the beach at Brufut. The grove is mostly comprised of
Baobab trees. It has a clearly demarcated approach from
the main street facing Brufut Village. A mud hut with
corrugated iron roofing provides shelter for those wishing
to keep vigil at the site. At the bottom of the cliff
is a water well where those who come for prayers are
ritually bathed.
Among other sites are Santangba, Gunjur, sacred wells,
sites used by prominent religious figures for prayers,
caves, stone circles, cemeteries and famous tombs,
mosques including sand dune mosques and churches.
These places are often associated with supernatural
powers and are as a result venerated by people and whole
communities. |
