10 Things to Do in the Chinguetti Mosque Courtyard (Chinguetti, Gorgol Mauritania)
The Chinguetti Mosque Courtyard in Chinguetti, Gorgol Mauritania is a beautiful and historically significant site that is well worth a visit. Located in the heart of the city, the courtyard is surrounded by the grand Chinguetti Mosque, which is one of the oldest mosques in Africa. The courtyard itself is a tranquil and peaceful oasis, and is home to a variety of activities that visitors can enjoy. From admiring the stunning architecture to learning about the rich history of the area, here are 10 things to do in the Chinguetti Mosque Courtyard.
1. Admire the Architecture: The Chinguetti Mosque is an impressive example of Islamic architecture and is one of the oldest mosques in Africa. The courtyard itself is a beautiful space, with a large open area surrounded by a colonnade of arches and columns. Visitors can admire the intricate details of the architecture, such as the intricately carved stonework and the grand minaret.
2. Learn About the History: The Chinguetti Mosque Courtyard is steeped in history and is an important site for Islamic scholars. The courtyard was once home to a library of Islamic texts, and is believed to have been used as a place of learning and teaching for centuries. Visitors can learn about the history of the area by visiting the nearby museum, which houses artifacts from the area’s past.
3. Visit the Mihrab: The mihrab is a niche in the wall of the mosque which indicates the direction of Mecca. It is an important part of Islamic architecture and is a beautiful feature of the Chinguetti Mosque. Visitors can admire the mihrab and learn about its significance.
4. Explore the Courtyard: The courtyard is a peaceful and tranquil oasis in the center of the city. Visitors can explore the courtyard and admire the beautiful gardens, trees, and fountains. The courtyard is also home to a variety of birds, making it a great spot for bird watching.
5. Attend a Prayer Service: The Chinguetti Mosque is an important center of Islamic worship and visitors can attend a prayer service in the courtyard. Prayer services are held five times a day and visitors are welcome to observe.
6. Visit the Souk: The souk is a bustling street market located in the courtyard. Visitors can browse the stalls and purchase a variety of items, including traditional Mauritanian crafts and souvenirs.
7. Try Local Cuisine: The souk is also a great place to sample local cuisine. Visitors can purchase freshly prepared dishes from the vendors and enjoy the flavors of Mauritania.
8. Visit the Madrasa: The Madrasa is a religious school located in the courtyard. Visitors can observe the students as they study and learn about Islamic theology.
9. Take a Guided Tour: Visitors can take a guided tour of the courtyard and learn about the history and significance of the site. The tour will take visitors to the mosque, the souk, and the Madrasa.
10. Enjoy the Views: The courtyard is surrounded by the city walls and offers stunning views of the surrounding desert. Visitors can enjoy the views from the courtyard and admire the beauty of the Mauritanian landscape.
The Chinguetti Mosque Courtyard is a beautiful and historically significant site that is well worth a visit. From admiring the stunning architecture to learning about the rich history of the area, there are plenty of things to do in the courtyard. Whether visitors are looking for a peaceful oasis or a cultural experience, the Chinguetti Mosque Courtyard is sure to provide a memorable experience.