Sorotomo: A Forgotten Malian Capital?

Abstract

Sorotomo is one of modern Mali’s largest tell sites and is connected by varied sources to the Empire of Mali (AD c.1235–1450). Unlike the majority of urban sites thus far investigated along the Middle Niger, it is associated by oral traditions with political power and military might, rather than with commercial networks. In 2006 and 2009/10 the authors conducted initial excavations at Sorotomo providing a dated occupational sequence and other evidence which have facilitated a fresh consideration of the possible historic role of the site.