World cultural body UNESCO was set to create a special fund to protect Mali's heritage on Tuesday after al-Qaida-linked Islamists attacked historic and religious landmarks in the city of Timbuktu for a third day, breaking down the door to a 15th century mosque that -- according to legend -- had to remain shut until the end of the world.

A UNESCO committee also called for a mission to go to Mali to work with local and national leaders to stop what it called "wanton destruction."


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"In legend, it is said that the main gate of Sidi Yahya mosque will not be opened until the last day (of the world)," Alpha Abdoulahi, the town imam, told Reuters by telephone.

Yet Islamists intent on erasing traces of what some regard as un-Islamic idolatry smashed down the door to the mosque early on Monday, saying they wanted to "destroy the mystery" of the ancient entrance, he said.

Al-Qaida linked fighters destroy 'end of the world' gate in Timbuktu - World News (http://worldnews.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/07/03/12537407-al-qaida-linked-fighters-destroy-end-of-the-world-gate-in-timbuktu?lite)

breaking down the door to a 15th century mosque that -- according to legend -- had to remain shut until the end of the world.

Well crap... first the Mayan calendar runs out of days, then Dick Clark dies the year that is predicted to NOT have a new year to ring in... now this.... we are doomed.