Mauritania is a large country in northwestern Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean, Senegal, Mali, Algeria, and Western Sahara. It is known for its vast Sahara Desert landscapes, ancient caravan cities, and rich Islamic heritage. The country bridges Arab North Africa and sub-Saharan Africa, giving it a distinctive blend of cultures.
- Capital
- Nouakchott
- Continent
- Africa
- Region
- Western Africa
- Area
- 1,030,700 km²
- Coordinates
- 20° N, 12° W
Country facts
- Arabic is the official language, and Hassaniya Arabic is the most widely spoken variety in daily life.
- The ancient city of Chinguetti was once a major gathering point for West African pilgrims traveling to Mecca.
- Mauritania abolished slavery legally in 1981, though enforcement legislation was not passed until 2007.
- The country is one of the world's significant producers of iron ore, which is a cornerstone of its export economy.
- The Mauritanian flag features a gold crescent and star on a green background, symbols of Islam.
Capital facts
- Nouakchott was purpose-built as a capital city around the time of Mauritanian independence in 1960.
- It is one of the largest cities in the Sahara region and serves as the country's main administrative hub.
- The city's name is believed to mean 'place of the winds' in the Berber language.
- Nouakchott has a port that plays an important role in the country's trade and fishing industry.
- The city faces ongoing challenges from desertification, with sand dunes gradually encroaching on its outskirts.