Sijilmasa
سجلماسة
The ruins of a trading city founded in the 8th century, once a hub for trans-Saharan trade famous for gold and salt, where only fragments of mud walls and a gate remain.
Sijilmasa was founded around 757 and was one of the wealthiest commercial cities of medieval North Africa. Camel caravans set out from here across the Sahara to West Africa, bringing back gold, ivory and enslaved people in exchange for salt and handicrafts. After the 14th century the city gradually declined and was eventually abandoned. Surviving remains are mainly rammed-earth walls stretching along the Ziz River and a restored north gate. The site lies at the edge of Rissani and is open to visitors, but it has almost no facilities or interpretation, so it is best to hire a local guide.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Rissani Souk
- Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif
- Gara Medouar
- Erfoud Fossil Workshops
- Ksar Maadid
- Khettaras of Jorf
- Dayet Srij Lake
- Erg Chebbi Desert Camps & Camel Trek