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Monuments De La Paix: A Symbol of Peace in Timbuktu

A peace monument in Timbuktu symbolizing the end of conflict and a commitment to reconciliation in a historically rich city.

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The Monuments De La Paix in Timbuktu stand as a powerful reminder of the end of the Tuareg rebellion in the 1990s. It symbolizes the commitment to peace and reconciliation in a region that has experienced significant conflict.

A brief summary to Monuments De La Paix

  • QXQM+J24, Timbuktu, ML

Local tips

  • Visit during the dry season (November to February) for cooler temperatures.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the city center, the Monuments De La Paix is located in the Abaradjou neighborhood, in the northern part of the city. Walking is a practical way to reach the monument, allowing you to observe the local life and architecture. As you head north, orient yourself towards the desert landscape. The monument is a well-known landmark, and locals can provide directions. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Timbuktu and can take you to the Monuments De La Paix. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A short taxi ride from the city center to the monument typically costs around 1000-2000 CFA, depending on the distance and your negotiation skills.

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Discover more about Monuments De La Paix

The Monuments De La Paix, also known as the Flame of Peace, is located in the northwest part of Timbuktu, facing the vast expanse of the desert. This monument marks a pivotal moment in Timbuktu's history, commemorating the symbolic destruction of over 3,000 weapons on March 27, 1996. Representatives from the Malian government and Tuareg rebel movements came together to pledge their commitment to peace and reconciliation. The monument itself is a white construction, with rifles, Kalashnikovs, and rocket launchers embedded in the surrounding concrete. It serves as a visual representation of the weapons that were burned during the ceremony, forever frozen in time as a testament to the end of the conflict. However, the monument has faced challenges, including neglect and degradation. It has been used as a dumping ground and a place of defecation, and it suffered further damage during the occupation of northern regions by extremist groups in 2012. Despite these challenges, there are ongoing efforts to revalorize the monument and restore its significance as a symbol of peace and reconciliation. Timbuktu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has a rich history as an intellectual and spiritual capital of Africa during the 15th and 16th centuries. The city was a center for Islamic learning and culture, attracting scholars and traders from far and wide. Its three great mosques—Djingareyber, Sankore, and Sidi Yahia—stand as reminders of Timbuktu's golden age. Despite facing threats from desertification and conflict, Timbuktu remains a meaningful destination for those interested in history, culture, and the pursuit of knowledge.

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