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Sidi Yahiya Mosque: A Testament to Timbuktu's Golden Age

Explore the historical Sidi Yahiya Mosque in Timbuktu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of Islamic learning and Sudano-Sahelian architecture.

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The Sidi Yahiya Mosque, dating back to the 15th century, stands as a symbol of faith and learning in Timbuktu, Mali. Its Sudano-Sahelian architecture and historical importance make it a must-see.

A brief summary to Sidi Yahiya Mosque

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (November to February) for a more comfortable experience.
  • Engage with local guides to learn more about the mosque's history and cultural significance.
  • Respectful attire is recommended when visiting the mosque.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Sidi Yahiya Mosque is located in the center of Timbuktu, making it easily accessible on foot from most points in the city. From the Grand Marché, walk approximately 500 meters. The mosque is well-known, so asking locals for directions is also an option.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Timbuktu. A short taxi ride from the Timbuktu Airport (TOM) to the Sidi Yahiya Mosque, located in the city center, costs approximately $8 USD. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Sidi Yahiya Mosque

The Sidi Yahiya Mosque, also known as the Mosque of Muhammad-n-Allah, is a historic mosque and madrasa in Timbuktu, Mali. Construction began in 1400 under Sheikh el-Mokhtar Hamalla and was completed in 1440. The mosque is named after Sidi Yahya al-Tadelsi, a venerated saint who became its first imam in 1441. As one of Timbuktu's oldest mosques, Sidi Yahiya holds special significance. In 1433, when the Touareg took control of Timbuktu, they appointed Mohammed Naddi, who commissioned the mosque. The mosque became part of the University of Timbuktu, a center for Islamic learning. Its madrasa housed a vast collection of manuscripts on theology, law, mathematics, and medicine. The mosque's architecture exemplifies the Sudano-Sahelian style, featuring mud-brick construction and wooden beams. The exterior is decorated with exposed wooden beams called torons, used for applying new layers of mud during the annual maintenance festival. The doors showcase Moroccan influence with ornate designs. Sidi Yahiya's tomb is located within the mosque, attracting visitors and scholars. The mosque has been restored several times, including a restoration in 1569 and more recently in 2013 with the support of UNESCO. The restoration aimed to preserve the mosque as a protective symbol of Timbuktu. Today, the Sidi Yahiya Mosque remains a revered site, embodying Mali's Islamic history and Timbuktu's legacy as a center of learning.

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