Ten Things to Do in Atar Palace (Palais d'Atar), Mauritania
Atar Palace, or Palais d'Atar, is a stunning and historically significant palace located in the city of Atar in Mauritania. The palace was built in the late 19th century by the Sultan of Mauritania, Moulay Ali ben Abdallah, and is now a popular tourist attraction. Here are ten things to do while visiting Atar Palace.
1. Explore the Palace Grounds: The grounds of Atar Palace are vast and offer plenty of opportunities for exploration. The palace is surrounded by lush gardens and courtyards, and visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the grounds to admire the architecture and get a feel for the history of the palace.
2. Visit the Sultan’s Throne Room: The Sultan’s Throne Room is one of the most impressive rooms in the palace. The room is decorated with intricate carvings and ornate furniture, and visitors can get a glimpse into the life of the Sultan who once ruled from this room.
3. Tour the Museum: Atar Palace is home to a museum that houses a variety of artifacts from the palace’s past. The museum is a great way to learn more about the history of the palace and the people who lived there.
4. Visit the Mosque: The mosque at Atar Palace is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. The mosque is open to visitors, and it’s a great place to take a break and admire the beautiful artwork and decoration.
5. Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride: Atar Palace offers horse-drawn carriage rides through the grounds of the palace. The rides are a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the palace from a different perspective.
6. Learn About the Palace’s History: The palace has a long and fascinating history, and visitors can learn more about it by taking a guided tour. The tour will take you through the various rooms of the palace and explain the significance of each one.
7. Take a Cooking Class: Atar Palace is home to a cooking school where visitors can learn how to make traditional Mauritanian dishes. The cooking classes are a great way to get a taste of the local cuisine and learn more about the culture of the region.
8. Visit the Souk: The souk, or market, at Atar Palace is a great place to pick up souvenirs and other items. The souk is filled with vendors selling everything from spices to jewelry, and it’s a great way to get a feel for the local culture.
9. Enjoy a Traditional Dance Performance: Atar Palace hosts a variety of traditional dance performances throughout the year. The performances are a great way to experience the culture of the region and learn more about the music and dance of Mauritania.
10. Relax at the Spa: Atar Palace also has a spa where visitors can relax and enjoy a variety of treatments. The spa offers a range of services from massages to facials, and it’s a great way to pamper yourself while visiting the palace.
Atar Palace is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Mauritania. The palace is a stunning example of Islamic architecture and is full of history and culture. Whether you’re looking to explore the grounds, learn about the palace’s history, or just relax at the spa, Atar Palace has something for everyone.