Much of my teaching of world history centers on trade systems like the Silk Road, Indian Ocean, and Atlantic systems. I was thrilled then to have a chance to visit a museum of Saharan Trade at a 300 year-old fortified rest stop known as a caravanserai. The exhibits in this incredibly remote outpost were rich with artifacts of the Saharan traders who linked the Mediterranean region with sub-Saharan Africa.
The photo below shows the outside of the old caravanseri, the view of which must have been a huge relief to nomads who had just crossed the desert. Also shown is a wall display of camel saddles, wooden couscous serving plates, and tent stakes. Fun fact: because of the temperatures and celestial navigation, Saharan traders would travel at night and rest during the day.
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