Djibouti

Djibouti occupies a stark volcanic landscape around the Gulf of Tadjoura and the Afar Depression, with salt lakes, faulted plateaus and extremely arid lowlands. Heat, strong sun and water scarcity dominate the environment. Traditional building uses stone, earth and coral or lime masonry in settled areas, while nomadic traditions rely on lightweight, portable materials; shade, compactness and controlled openings are fundamental climatic strategies.