Ancient Ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt and Oualata

The four ancient settlements consist of stone and adobe buildings constructed along strategic points of trans-Saharan trade routes in western Africa.

Between the 11th and 16th centuries, these fortified towns functioned as centers for trade caravans transporting salt, gold, and manuscripts across the Sahara Desert.

The buildings incorporate traditional Berber construction methods with geometric patterns and incorporate spaces for religious education and manuscript preservation.

Travel to these remote desert locations requires advanced planning, experienced guides, and suitable vehicles prepared for extreme temperatures and sand conditions.

The sites contain thousands of medieval Islamic manuscripts stored in private libraries, documenting centuries of astronomical, mathematical, and religious knowledge.

Location: Tichit

Location: Chinguetti

Location: Ouadane

Location: Oualata

GPS coordinates: 20.92889,-11.62361

Latest update: March 3, 2025 23:09