Banc d'Arguin National Park

The Banc d'Arguin National Park, located on the west coast of Mauritania, is a World Heritage Site renowned for its ecological and archaeological significance. Established in 1976, the park is a sanctuary for an extraordinary diversity of migratory and nesting bird species, as well as marine life. The park's islands and mudflats provide vital breeding grounds for numerous bird species, while the surrounding waters are some of the richest fishing grounds in western Africa. Historically, the area was strategically important, with various European powers vying for control due to its rich fishery and potential for trade. The Portuguese established a trading fort in the 15th century, and the region remained a focal point for trade, including the gum arabic trade, exploited by the Dutch and later the French. These historical interactions have left a significant mark on the region's cultural landscape.