In 1447 a Genoan merchant named Antonio Malfante visited the Saharan oasis of Tuat and wrote a letter in which he described the life of the Jewish merchants there:

There are many Jews, who lead a good life here, for they are under the protection of the several rulers, each of whom defends his own clients. Thus they enjoy very secure social standing. Trade is in their hands, and many of them are to be trusted with the greatest confidence. This locality is a mart of the country of the Moors, to which merchants come to sell their goods: gold is carried hither, and bought by those who come up from the coast. This place is Tamentit, and there are many rich men here. The generality, however, are very poor, for they do not sow, nor do they harvest anything, save...