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Timbuktu
In the 13th century, Timbuktu supported the prosperity of the Mali and Songhai empires as a trading center for salt and gold. Timbuktu's decline started from the late 16th century. The current desertification of surrounding areas has seen Timbuktu inscribed on the List of World Heritage in Danger. Today it is still one of the destinations most visited by foreign tourists, particularly those from Europe, America, Asia, and the Near/Middle East.
Djenne
Djenne is known as Timbuktu's twin sister. From the 13th century, Djenne developed as the distribution point for everyday commodities such as rice and corn, and also as a center of arts, learning and religion. In the middle of the old city stands a great Sudanese-style mosque. Djenne society was organized around this mosque, and even today the region is noted for its strong Islamic faith and high intellect.
Bandiagara (Dogon)
The villages of the Dogon, who live on an escarpment some 200 km long, are built, as conveyed in their mythology, in the shape of people, their head turned toward the north. The mask dances are also intimately connected with Dogon mythology. Dogon culture has been threatened in recent years, particularly by the severe droughts afflicting the Sahara.
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