Kilwa Kisiwani
UNESCO World Heritage ruins of a medieval Swahili trading city, one of the most important archaeological sites in East Africa.
Highlights
- UNESCO Heritage
- Great Mosque Ruins
- Swahili History
- Ancient Trading Empire
Best time: June - October
Best for: UNESCO Heritage, Great Mosque Ruins, Swahili History
Kilwa Kisiwani contains UNESCO World Heritage ruins of a medieval Swahili trading city, one of the most important archaeological sites in East Africa.
The ruins include the Great Mosque, once the largest in sub-Saharan Africa, and impressive palaces showcasing medieval Swahili architecture.
From the 11th to 16th centuries, Kilwa was one of Africa's most important trading ports, connecting gold from interior Africa with Indian Ocean trade networks.
Archaeological excavations have revealed Chinese porcelain, Persian ceramics, and other evidence of Kilwa's role in international trade.
The site provides fascinating insights into medieval African urban civilization and the sophisticated Swahili coastal culture.
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