Center of Islamic Learning: From the 14th to 16th centuries, Timbuktu, in Mali, was a major center of Islamic learning and culture. The city housed the renowned University of Sankore and numerous madrasas, attracting scholars and students from across the Islamic world.
Manuscript Treasures: Timbuktu is famous for its ancient manuscripts, which cover a wide range of subjects, including astronomy, medicine, law, and theology. Thousands of these manuscripts are preserved in private libraries and institutions, offering a glimpse into the scholarly achievements of the city’s past.
Golden Age of Trade: Situated at the crossroads of the trans-Saharan trade routes, Timbuktu thrived as a commercial hub. The city was a vital link in the trade of gold, salt, ivory, and enslaved people between West Africa, North Africa, and Europe.
The Great Mosques: The architectural marvels of Timbuktu include its three great mosques: Djinguereber, Sankore, and Sidi Yahya. Built from mudbrick and wood, these mosques are not only places of worship but also symbols of the city’s historical and cultural legacy.
Mansa Musa’s Pilgrimage: The city’s fame was further enhanced by the pilgrimage of Mansa Musa, the emperor of the Mali Empire, in 1324. His lavish display of wealth and generosity during his journey to Mecca put Timbuktu on the map, attracting merchants and scholars to its bustling markets and institutions.
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