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.
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