Mali, stretching across the Sahel and Sahara, is famed for its ancient trading cities like Timbuktu, vibrant mud-brick mosques, and the haunting melodies of desert blues music. Malians are known for their hospitality, colorful textiles, and a strong sense of community. Islam is the main faith, but traditional beliefs—such as the veneration of spirits and ancestors—remain influential, especially in rural areas. Spiritual life is often expressed through music, storytelling, and the spectacular Festival in the Desert.
