Timbuktu is an oasis city in the West African nation of Mali with a population of 54,453 (Census 2009).

By the rich history and the location at the intersection of large trade routes, the population of Timbuktu is composed of many different ethnic groups. Among them are Berber, Moorish, Songhai, Mandinka and Bambara. In part, they inhabit their own neighborhood, in the city and its surroundings you can rather encounter representatives of the Tuareg and Fulani with their camels herds.

The original construction in Timbuktu was due to the lack of stones. Therefore, it was mostly built with clay. The older reports speak of beehive-like circular structures, in which lived mainly the poorer population.

In the 15th Century began with a more elaborate architectural style that characterised mainly the houses of the upper class (civil servants, merchants and scholars). Particularly evident is a form of clay architecture, which has become known as "Sudanese style" known. At mosques with their upward tapering towers.

Timbuktu is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988.