The city of Timbuktu is located in Mali, a landlocked country in West Africa. Historically, Timbuktu was a significant center for trade, culture, and education, particularly known for its ancient manuscripts and universities in the 15th and 16th centuries. It is positioned near the Niger River and was historically a primary location for traders moving goods across the Sahara Desert. Though now a World Heritage site, the city has faced various challenges, including political instability and threats to its cultural heritage in recent years. Today, it remains a symbol of the rich history of African civilization.