A tata or tata somba is a historic type of fortification used throughout West Africa. The word is applied to the wall itself as well as the elite living spaces within it for the ruler of the tata and his court. It can also designate the defenses around a major city or other military center. The term 'tata' derives from the Mandinka language but has been used across a wide area, roughly corresponding to the former Mali Empire, since at least the 16th century.