The city of Timbuktu is located in Mali, a country in West Africa. Historically, Timbuktu was a thriving center for trade, culture, and education during the Mali Empire, especially in the 14th to 16th centuries. It served as a focal point for scholars, traders, and religious leaders, housing numerous prestigious universities and libraries. Although its prominence has diminished, Timbuktu remains an important symbol of African heritage and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.