Mauritania is a country in West Africa, Africa with a rich history, unique culture and some remarkable records. Here are the most interesting facts about Mauritania that most people don't know.
Mauritania was the last country in the world to officially abolish slavery in 1981, though it wasn't criminalized until 2007. The country is also home to the world's longest train — the iron ore train that stretches up to 3km in length.
Mauritania was the last country in the world to officially abolish slavery — in 1981, though it wasn't criminalised until 2007.
The Richat Structure (Eye of the Sahara) is a 50km wide geological bull's-eye visible from space.
Chinguetti is Islam's 7th holiest city and a major medieval centre of Islamic scholarship.
Mauritania is 90% desert — mostly Sahara.
Mauritania was the last country in the world to officially abolish slavery in 1981, though it wasn't criminalized until 2007. The country is also home to the world's longest train — the iron ore train that stretches up to 3km in length.
Mauritania is known for several remarkable places that attract visitors and define the country's identity:
A mysterious 50km wide geological bull's-eye in the Sahara — visible from space and still not fully explained
UNESCO ancient caravan city — Islam's 7th holiest city and a medieval centre of Quranic scholarship
UNESCO coastal wetland — one of the world's most important bird sanctuaries with 2 million migratory birds
The world's longest train — up to 3km of wagons carrying iron ore across the Sahara to the coast
Mauritania was the last country in the world to officially abolish slavery in 1981, though it wasn't criminalized until 2007. The country is also home to the world's longest train — the iron ore train that stretches up to 3km in length.
The capital of Mauritania is Nouakchott.
Mauritania has a population of approximately 4.7M.
The official language of Mauritania is Arabic.
Mauritania gained independence in 1960.
Mauritania uses the Mauritanian Ouguiya (MRU).