Is there really a place called Timbuktu? Yes, though it has fallen into mayhem. No one knows who is in charge any more.
“”Omg! Just found out Timbuktu is a real place!”
The news that the city of Timbuktu has been seized by ethnic Tuaregs has had some tweeters scratching their heads, unaware up to now that it even existed.
While some people will be familiar with the Tuareg people, almost everyone will recognise the place name Timbuktu, even if they think it’s mythical.” — BBC