The ancient African kingdom famous for its wealth and trade routes is the Kingdom of Mali, which thrived from the 13th to 16th centuries. Under the rule of Mansa Musa, the kingdom became renowned for its abundant gold, Salt trade, and educational centers like Timbuktu. Mansa Musa's pilgrimage to Mecca further enhanced Mali's reputation across the Islamic world, showcasing its incredible wealth and cultural significance. The kingdom's strategic location along trans-Saharan trade routes contributed to its prosperity, making it a vital player in the medieval economy of West Africa.