The archaeological site at Azelik wan Birni is believed to be the ruins of ancient Takedda.

In the 14th century (possibly also earlier and later) the Tuareg-controlled kingdom of Takedda, west of the Aïr Massif, played a prominent role in long-distance trade, notably owing to the importance of its copper mines.

The French archeologist, Danilo Grébénart, has excavated the site and has studied the significance of this prehistoric non-ferrous metal industry.

He added the first conquests to Mali since the reign of Ouali including the former Wagadou provinces of Tekrour and Diara.

He campaigned into Senegal and conquered the Wolof province of Dyolof then took the army east to subjugate the copper producing area of Takedda.