Chinguetti: Mauritania's Ancient City of History and Mystery
Located in the Sahara Desert of northern Mauritania, Chinguetti is an ancient city with a rich history and culture, and a unique atmosphere that draws visitors from all over the world. The city is one of the oldest surviving Islamic cities in the world, and its old buildings, mosques and markets still stand as a testament to the city’s past.
History
Chinguetti was founded in the 12th century by the Berbers, and it quickly grew in importance as a center of Islamic learning. The city was an important trading post for gold, salt, and other goods, and its location on the caravan route between Morocco and Timbuktu made it a key part of the trans-Saharan trade. The city’s population reached a peak in the 15th century, when it was home to around 30,000 people.
In the 16th century, Chinguetti was sacked by the Moroccans, and its population declined. In the 19th century, the city was briefly occupied by the French, but it was soon abandoned. Today, the city is home to around 5,000 people, and it is a popular tourist destination.
Amazing Facts
The city of Chinguetti is home to some of the oldest Islamic manuscripts in the world. The manuscripts were written in the 9th and 10th centuries, and they contain some of the earliest examples of Islamic literature. The manuscripts are kept in the city’s seven libraries, which are considered to be some of the oldest libraries in the world.
Chinguetti is also home to the oldest mosque in Mauritania. The mosque was built in the 11th century, and it is still used today for religious services. The city is also home to the oldest standing minaret in the country, which was built in the 13th century.
Things to Do
Chinguetti is a great place to explore the history and culture of Mauritania. Visitors can wander through the city’s narrow streets and explore its ancient buildings and mosques. The city’s markets are also a great place to find traditional crafts and souvenirs.
The city is also a great place to explore the Sahara Desert. Visitors can take a camel ride through the desert and explore the sand dunes and oases. There are also a number of nearby archaeological sites, including the ruins of the ancient city of Ouadane.
For those looking for a more relaxing experience, Chinguetti is a great place to relax and take in the scenery. The city is surrounded by beautiful desert scenery, and the sunsets are particularly spectacular. The city is also a great place to sample traditional Mauritanian cuisine, and there are a number of restaurants and cafes in the city.