Aoudaghost

Aoudaghost, a former Berber town located in present-day Mauritania, played a significant role as a southern terminus of the trans-Saharan caravan route during the medieval period. The archaeological site at Tegdaoust is believed to be the remains of this once-thriving town. Excavations have revealed a tell with structures dating from the 7th to the 15th centuries, including mud-brick and stone buildings. At its peak, Aoudaghost was a bustling trade hub with markets, mosques, and gardens, enjoying wealth from gold transactions. The town came under Almoravid control in the mid-11th century, leading to its decline. By the 13th century, the town of Oualata had replaced Aoudaghost as the key caravan route terminus.