What was tombouctou like in the 1500s?

In the 1500s, Timbuktu was a vibrant center of trade, culture, and scholarship in West Africa, situated along the trans-Saharan trade routes. It flourished as a hub for the exchange of gold, salt, and other goods, attracting merchants and travelers from across the continent and beyond. The city was renowned for its Islamic scholarship, with numerous mosques and universities, such as the famous Sankore University, fostering a rich intellectual environment. Its cosmopolitan atmosphere and architectural beauty made Timbuktu a symbol of prosperity and cultural achievement during this period.