Thimlich Ohinga Archaeological Site
Location: Northern coast of Kenya
Year of Inscription: 2001
Criteria: (ii) interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iv) an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history.
Overview: Lamu Old Town is a well-preserved Swahili settlement that dates back to the 14th century. The town is located on Lamu Island, which is part of the Lamu Archipelago off the northern coast of Kenya. The town's unique blend of Swahili, Arabic, Persian, Indian, and European influences is reflected in its architecture, culture, and way of life.
Prominent Features: Lamu Old Town is known for its narrow, winding streets, traditional Swahili houses with ornately carved wooden doors and balconies, and historic mosques and other buildings. The town's distinctive cultural heritage is also reflected in its music, dance, and other traditions.
History: Lamu Old Town was founded in the 14th century by Arab traders and became an important center of trade between East Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The town was ruled by various sultans and was later occupied by the Portuguese and the British.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can enjoy exploring Lamu Old Town's narrow streets, taking a boat ride to nearby islands and beaches, and participating in local cultural activities such as henna painting and dhow sailing. The town's museums, including the Lamu Museum and the Swahili House Museum, offer educational exhibits and programs for visitors of all ages.
Fun Fact: Lamu Old Town is famous for its annual Lamu Cultural Festival, which celebrates the town's rich Swahili heritage with music, dance, food, and other cultural activities.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit Lamu Old Town. However, some of the town's museums and other attractions may charge a fee.
How to Reach it: Lamu Island can be reached by boat or air from Mombasa or Nairobi. Visitors can take a flight to Manda Island and then take a short boat ride to Lamu Island. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus or taxi from Mombasa or Nairobi to the town of Malindi and then take a boat from there to Lamu Island.
Once on the island, visitors can explore Lamu Old Town on foot or by donkey, as vehicles are not allowed on the narrow streets.
Where to Stay: There are several hotels and guesthouses in and around Lamu Old Town, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Some of the popular options include Lamu House Hotel, Peponi Hotel, and Kijani Hotel.
Next Stop: Fort Jesus, Mombasa
Year of Inscription: 2001
Criteria: (ii) interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iv) an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history.
Overview: Lamu Old Town is a well-preserved Swahili settlement that dates back to the 14th century. The town is located on Lamu Island, which is part of the Lamu Archipelago off the northern coast of Kenya. The town's unique blend of Swahili, Arabic, Persian, Indian, and European influences is reflected in its architecture, culture, and way of life.
Prominent Features: Lamu Old Town is known for its narrow, winding streets, traditional Swahili houses with ornately carved wooden doors and balconies, and historic mosques and other buildings. The town's distinctive cultural heritage is also reflected in its music, dance, and other traditions.
History: Lamu Old Town was founded in the 14th century by Arab traders and became an important center of trade between East Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. The town was ruled by various sultans and was later occupied by the Portuguese and the British.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can enjoy exploring Lamu Old Town's narrow streets, taking a boat ride to nearby islands and beaches, and participating in local cultural activities such as henna painting and dhow sailing. The town's museums, including the Lamu Museum and the Swahili House Museum, offer educational exhibits and programs for visitors of all ages.
Fun Fact: Lamu Old Town is famous for its annual Lamu Cultural Festival, which celebrates the town's rich Swahili heritage with music, dance, food, and other cultural activities.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit Lamu Old Town. However, some of the town's museums and other attractions may charge a fee.
How to Reach it: Lamu Island can be reached by boat or air from Mombasa or Nairobi. Visitors can take a flight to Manda Island and then take a short boat ride to Lamu Island. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus or taxi from Mombasa or Nairobi to the town of Malindi and then take a boat from there to Lamu Island.
Once on the island, visitors can explore Lamu Old Town on foot or by donkey, as vehicles are not allowed on the narrow streets.
Where to Stay: There are several hotels and guesthouses in and around Lamu Old Town, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Some of the popular options include Lamu House Hotel, Peponi Hotel, and Kijani Hotel.
Next Stop: Fort Jesus, Mombasa