Togu Na Post

Togu na are essentially shelters, consisting of carved posts, such as this one, which support wooden beams piled with layers of millet stalks. The thick roof of millet stalks absorbs the heat of the sun, providing a cool refuge during the hottest part of the day. This post's decoration is minimal, with breasts that refer to the nurturing power of women and a lizard that, in Dogan culture, symbolizes femininity. The togu na is one of the most important buildings in any Dogon village. It serves as a meeting place for men who make important decisions affecting the community.