What are the unique features of Timbuktu?

The city of Timbuktu in the West African country of Mali was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. Timbuktu was founded by Tuareg nomads as their seasonal camp around 1100 AD.

As the meeting point of desert and water, the city became an important trading centre on the trans-Saharan caravan route. Timbuktu was a centre of Islamic culture that was added to the Mali Empire in the late 13th or 14th century. Called the City of Gold, Timbuktu is also an ancient centre of learning.

In 1960, Timbuktu became a part of the Republic of Mali. Due to armed conflicts the city was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage in Danger in 2012. Constant wars and neglect have caused significant damage to the city. Due to desertification and the lack of development, the city is almost turning to dust.

Picture Credit : Google

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