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Timbuktu

Timbuktu
Timbuktu became famous in the 15th century because of the booming gold and salt trade in the Sahara region at that time. Timbuktu was not only a commercial centre, but also of great importance for Islam and science, housing a famous university and several medressas. In some ways, it was the center of the (African-Islamic) world. The inscription actually narrows down to the three large mosques and sixteen cemeteries and mausoleums of Timbuktu.

During the 19th century a number of European adventurers visited Timbuktu, sometimes with fatal consequences. That was the period when the western world became aware of this city in the desert, and it received its romantic annotations.

In 1990, the site was also added to the list of Worldheritages in Danger because of the threat of encroachment by desert sands.

Year Decision Comments
2012In Dangerthreatened by armed conflict & to prevent trafficking in cultural objects from there
2008Reinforced MonitoringNew constructions near mosques
2005Removed from Danger list
1990In Danger
1988 Inscribed Reasons for inscription
1981DeferredAt Bureau - Needs better delimitation etc
1980Deferred



Visit October 1999

The past of Timbuktu past is more glorious than its present. Now it is a little town on the edge of the Sahara, with sand covered streets and souvenir selling Toeareg. The mosques are worth a visit, as are the old houses in the center of town with their beautiful manufactured doors. My most remarkable moment was that when I arrived on Friday afternoon, its male inhabitants with their colourful robes just left the mosques. They made a wonderful contrast with the sandy streets and buildings.

More photos can be found in the Picture Gallery

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Reviews

Raby (Mali):
I'm from Timbuktu..and I loved the site..you really got to portray what is Timbuktu...if only there could be a video..anyway how did you like your stay?
See ya!
 
Rachel Fredrick (Mali then, USA now):
The heritage of Timbuktu is indescribable. Especially if you are looking into it as a quick tourist visit. I grew up in Timbuktu, as an American girl and teenager, and learned to understand the people. I hosted many tourists at our house with my parents, and went on all the camel rides I could. That would be the first thing I would recommend doing-going out to the Hotel Azalai on the outskirts of Timbuktu and hiring a Tuareg guide to take you on camelback to one of the small Tuareg camps just outside town. YOu will enjoy spending time away from the crowds, and sip some real Arabic tea with the nomads . The trip is just long enought to get a feel for riding the camel and see the beauty of the landscape and its people. The greatest treasure of Timbuktu is its people.
 


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