In medieval times , Tuareg , in recent weeks Mali , was an important intellectual center . `` The fact this part of the country has been taken by the Tuareg rebellion and Islamist groups does not allow any more tourists to visit , and the communities depend a lot on the tourism revenue , '' he said . Known for its great mosques and trove of manuscripts , the city has world-heritage status . Islamist and Mali rebels have occupied the city in present-day . the Geographical Society of Paris fears the important site could be destroyed or looted by rebels .
In medieval times , Tuareg , in recent weeks Mali , was an important intellectual center . Known for its great mosques and trove of manuscripts , the city has world-heritage status . Islamist and Mali rebels have occupied the city in present-day . the Geographical Society of Paris fears the important site could be destroyed or looted by rebels .