Touba

The foundation of Touba emerged from the spiritual quest of Shaykh Ahmadu Bamba, who sought a place of seclusion where he could worship his Lord in complete devotion, free from worldly disturbance. In the late nineteenth century, the Shaykh’s growing spiritual influence drew multitudes from across the region—seekers thirsting for knowledge, discipline, and nearness to Allāh. To withdraw from the noise of society and dedicate himself entirely to divine service, he undertook multiple retreats, moving from Mbacké Kajoor to Mbacké Baol, then founding Dâru-s-Salâm in 1886, each time searching for a sanctified space of tranquillity.

It was during this profound search that Allāh, in His mercy, guided the Shaykh to an untouched, unexplored forest—an expanse belonging to no kingdom and never inhabited by man. Upon setting foot on this land, he proclaimed: “I praise Allāh for having led me to a place where He has removed all obstacles from my path.” In that moment, the destiny of Touba was sealed. The site, once home only to wild beasts, was cleared by the Shaykh himself and given its blessed name, ‘Tûbâ’—a name symbolising felicity and recalling the majestic paradisiacal tree described in sacred tradition, whose branches shade every dwelling of Paradise.

Founded in 1306 AH (1888 CE), Touba became a city of peace, divine signs, and spiritual refuge. Its status is unique: a land belonging entirely to Shaykh Ahmadu Bamba by right and by divine decree, never annexed nor governed by any earthly authority. From this sacred origin, Touba rose to become the sanctuary of the Muridiyya—a place of pilgrimage and spiritual convergence for millions. The Shaykh himself affirmed its divine protection and foretold its future radiance. Today, Touba stands as a testament to his mission: a city where worship, knowledge, remembrance, and service form the living heart of an enduring spiritual civilisation.