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Chinguetti is one of the most important cities in Mauritania after Nouakchott, the capital of the city. The city was previously a trading center in the northern part of Mauritania. Occupying a vital place in the economy of the country, there are several trans-Sahara trade routes via Chinguetti.
Chinguetti has a rich historical and cultural background and that is evident in each and every event of the city. The city had many scholars and education was widely spread in the city. There are several manuscripts, which have been found in the city.
The location of Chinguetti and the various areas in close vicinity of the city present a picaresque sight to the tourists. Apart from the exotic scenic splendor of the place, there are various things of attraction in the city. There are some ancient architectural and historical sites, which attract large number of tourists. Some of the places of tourist attraction include ancient libraries, mosques, a fortress and a tall water tower.
The typical and traditional Saharan architecture can be evidenced in the various houses of the city. Most of the houses are made of red stones or mud bricks. The roofs are covered with palm leaves or wide-leaved plants. The houses are large and many of them even have a courtyard in the front portion of the house. The city is also a pilgrimage destination for many Islam followers. Chinguetti has also been declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
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