10 Things to Do in The Great Mosque of Timbuktu (Grande Mosquée de Timbuktu) Yelimane Mali
The Great Mosque of Timbuktu (Grande Mosquée de Timbuktu) in Yelimane, Mali is one of the most iconic landmarks in Africa. It is a symbol of the city’s rich history and culture, and is an important part of the region’s religious and cultural heritage. The mosque is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is a must-see for anyone visiting Mali. Here are 10 things you can do when visiting the Great Mosque of Timbuktu.
1. Explore the Mosque’s History: The Great Mosque of Timbuktu was built in the 13th century, and is the oldest mosque in the region. It is a beautiful example of traditional African architecture, and its walls are adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy. It is also home to several ancient manuscripts, including the famous “Book of Kings”, which is a collection of stories about the early rulers of the region.
2. Visit the Mausoleum of Askia the Great: The mausoleum of Askia the Great is located in the courtyard of the Great Mosque of Timbuktu. It is a sacred site for many, as it is where Askia the Great (the ruler of the Songhai Empire) is buried. The mausoleum is a great place to learn about the history of the region and to pay your respects to the great leader.
3. Explore the Courtyard: The courtyard of the Great Mosque of Timbuktu is a great place to explore. It is full of lush vegetation and has several monuments and statues that are worth a visit. It is also home to several other important sites, such as the Mausoleum of Askia the Great and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
4. See the Ancient Manuscripts: The Great Mosque of Timbuktu is home to several ancient manuscripts, including the famous “Book of Kings”. These manuscripts are a great way to learn about the history and culture of the region, and are a must-see for anyone visiting the mosque.
5. Learn About Islamic Art: The mosque is adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy, which are a great way to learn about Islamic art. The carvings are a great example of traditional African art, and are a great way to appreciate the region’s culture and history.
6. Attend a Religious Service: The mosque is an important place of worship for the people of Timbuktu, and it is possible to attend a religious service when visiting the mosque. This is a great way to learn about the region’s religious beliefs and culture, and to experience the atmosphere of a traditional African mosque.
7. Visit the Local Markets: The markets around the mosque are a great place to explore. They are full of local crafts and goods, and it is a great way to get a taste of the region’s culture and to pick up some souvenirs.
8. Take a Tour of the City: Timbuktu is a fascinating city, and it is worth taking a tour to explore its history and culture. There are several tour companies that offer guided tours of the city, and these are a great way to learn more about the region.
9. Visit the Local Museums: Timbuktu is home to several museums, including the National Museum of Mali and the Museum of African Art. These are great places to learn more about the region’s history and culture, and to explore the region’s art and culture.
10. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Timbuktu is home to some of the best food in Africa, and it is worth trying some of the local dishes when visiting the city. The city is full of great restaurants, and it is a great way to sample the local cuisine and to get a taste of the region’s culture.