The Ancient ksour of Ouadane, Chinguetti, Tichitt, Oualata
750
Mauritania
C (iii) (i v) (v)
The Committee decided to inscribe the nominated property on the World Heritage List on the basis of cultural criteria (iii), (iv) and (v) considering that these four ancient cities constitute exceptional examples of settlements built to serve the important trade routes of the Sahara Desert, and which were witness to cultural, social and economic contacts for many centuries.
Several delegations emphasized the importance of this inscription, following a long safeguarding campaign, which adds to the richness of the World Heritage List. It introduces the notion of halting places, necessary landmarks of itineraries and trade routes. This new category of space was identified thanks to the Global Strategy.
The Observer of Mauritania then thanked the members of the Committee and underlined the commitment of his authorities for the rehabilitation of these cities in the framework of integrated development approach. He expressed his gratitude for the efforts of the international community at bilateral and multilateral levels.