Boutilimit

Boutilimit was founded in the nineteenth century around a mahadra, a mobile school of the Islamic sciences run by the Sidiyya family, and it became one of the more important centres of learning in the western Sahara. Its library holds manuscripts on law, grammar, astronomy and poetry. The town also has a long weaving and craft tradition. It sits on the Route de l'Espoir two hours from the capital. Mauritania's first president came from the town, which is part of why it kept its standing after independence.

What you actually see

• The library - manuscripts on law, grammar, astronomy and poetry.
• The mahadra tradition - the mobile school of Islamic sciences the town grew from.
• The Sidiyya family - the scholarly lineage that founded the settlement.
• The craft work - the weaving tradition the town is also known for.

When to go

November to February is the cool season. Library access must be arranged in advance. Summer heat is severe.

Honest expectations

Library access is by arrangement and not guaranteed; manuscripts are family property. The town itself has little else for a visitor. Facilities are minimal.

Nearby

Nouakchott is northwest, and Aleg is east.