LIBRARIES

There are still several private libraries in Chinguetti, all of which contain magnificent manuscripts, some 1,000 years old. These exceptionally calligraphic documents were used by scholars who studied and taught here, while others accompanied the faithful on their way to Mecca. There are an estimated 3,000 books in Chinguetti, mainly religious, in 12 collections (out of the original 30).

You can visit some of these libraries. One of the most representative is that of the Melaïnine family, with its adjoining museum brimming with utilitarian objects from the period. Another must-see is the Al-Ahmed Mahmoud Foundation, which proudly displays its motto: "Knowledge is the only wealth that can be distributed without the risk of ruin If you're lucky, the owner will give you his secret lecture in the inner courtyard. He'll talk about history, the big one, with the origin of the name Mauritania (born in 1899), but also the little one, like when 32,000 camels from a caravan passed through Chinguetti in a single day. He will also describe the objects gathered in the courtyard, such as millstones, mortars and an impluvium.

In the end, he will unveil some of his nuggets on paper, such as old Korans with illuminations, which he will remove from a dusty cabinet, albeit wearing gloves. A powerful experience, with a touch of humor! Price: MRU 200 per person.