Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), has unveiled the Organization’s project to restore the ancient mosque of Chinguetti in Mauritania, in the historic district classified as an Islamic and world heritage site, including the Imam’s house and the mosque’s interior and exterior courtyards. This initiative has been launched in agreement with the Mauritanian Ministry of Culture, Arts, Communication and Relations with Parliament, in total compliance with the cultural heritage technical requirements.

This decision comes following Dr. AlMalik’s visit to the mosque, on the sidelines of his participation in the opening of the 13th session of “Madayn Heritage Festival”, which kicked off on 13 December 2024 in Chinguetti, under the patronage and in the presence of H.E. President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani.

During the visit, the Director General toured the various sections of the mosque and its interior and exterior courtyards. He also learned about the history and great historical symbolism of this Islamic architecture, a monument that has taught thousands of scholars over more than ten centuries and a key departure point for pilgrims from West Africa.

He added that the decision to restore the ancient mosque of Chinguetti falls within the framework of the outstanding partnership between ICESCO and Mauritania, as well as ICESCO’s commitment to heritage preservation.

The ancient mosque of Chinguetti is one of the most prominent monuments in the ancient city, representing a unique architectural model that combines simplicity and precise architectural design. It was first founded in 160 A.H. in ancient Chinguetti, before being re-founded in 660 A.H. in its present location.