Chinguetti
An ancient city in the Adrar desert, the 7th holy city of Islam. A major stop for trade caravans and pilgrims on the way to Mecca. Famous for its ancient libraries housing thousands of manuscripts and for its stone architecture.
UNESCO 1996
Ancient cities
Four cities listed as UNESCO World Heritage since 1996, symbols of Mauritanian heritage.
The ancient cities and the nomadic way of life are bound by the history of trade and desert life. They face erosion and desertification that threaten their historic buildings.
Ouadane
An ancient caravan city in the heart of the Mauritanian desert, strategic on the salt and gold trade routes. It preserves its historical architecture and remains to this day.
Tichitt
An archaeological site in southeastern Mauritania dating back to the Neolithic (around 2000 BC). A major centre of trans-Saharan trade, notably for salt and dates.
Oualata
An ancient caravan city near the Malian border. A major centre of trade and Islamic scholarship, known for its red-earth houses decorated with traditional patterns.