Whether or not you’ve seen the movie Black Panther, you have likely witnessed much of the fandom around it, especially if you live in Illinois. Due to the similar sounding names, it seems the fictional land of Wakanda from the film may actually exist.

There’s a village in the Prairie State that has recently been opened up to the world, and you have to check it out. Scroll on for all the details:

Marvel's Black Panther primarily takes place in the fictional world of Wakanda, which, it turns out, has some similarities to a small town in Illinois.
Flickr/Bryan Ward
The village of Wauconda not only sounds just like Wakanda, but it is also being newly discovered after hiding away for so long. Ever since the film was released, visitors have been flocking to this Lake County town to see if they can catch a glimpse of T'Challa or find vibranium.
Google Maps
Don't look too hard, though. Vibranium is not real and Wauconda doesn't have a king.
The town is home to less than 14,000 people and is hidden in a beautiful tangle of forest preserves and lakes, including Wauconda Bog Nature Preserve.
Facebook/Village of Wauconda

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Another fun fact about this town that relates it to Black Panther is that Wauconda is named after an Indian Chief who was believed to have spelled his name "Wakanda."
Wikimedia Commons/greglaskiewicz
That's enough proof for me to believe they are the same.
Illinois' lovely village of Wauconda is filled with charming locally-owned stores like antique shops and other boutique places to find souvenirs and gifts. It's a great place to visit regardless of your affinity for the film.
Google Maps
While Wauconda isn't quite the secluded utopia found in Black Panther, it does poses an unbeatable beauty that has only recently been realized by Illinoisans at large. Join the craze and check out this charming town.
Facebook/Village of Wauconda

If you’ve ever been to this gorgeous Illinois village, share your experiences with us! Join our Illinois Nature Lovers Facebook group here and post your amazing photos of Wauconda for all to see.

If you enjoy exploring the hidden pockets of Illinois, check out 16 secret spots that make our state great.

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