The capital of the ancient Ghana empire was Awkar. The Ghana empire existed from the 4th to 13th centuries in West Africa. Awkar was located in present-day Mali, near the Niger River.
Awkar was an important trading city and served as the political and economic center of the Ghana empire. It was strategically situated between the desert region to the north and the forest region to the south, which allowed for easy access to valuable trade resources from both areas.
The wealth and power of the Ghana empire were primarily built on the control of gold and salt trade routes. Gold was abundant in the forest regions to the south, while salt was scarce in the desert regions to the north. The empire's location made it a critical hub for facilitating trade between the two regions.
Awkar became a flourishing city due to its role as a commercial center. It attracted merchants from various parts of Africa and beyond. These merchants brought goods like textiles, spices, and other valuable resources, creating a bustling marketplace in Awkar.
As the capital of the Ghana empire, Awkar was also home to important political and administrative institutions. It was where the king, known as the Ghana, held court and made decisions regarding the empire. The city was likely adorned with beautiful palaces, mosques, and other structures representing the empire's wealth and influence.
In summary, Awkar served as the capital of the ancient Ghana empire. It was a thriving city located in present-day Mali, known for its importance in trade, politics, and administration.