Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Ruins of Songo Mnara

　　The Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara are situated on Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara Island in Tanzania’s Lindi Region. From the 13th to the 16th century, merchants from Kilwa were involved in the trade of gold, silver, pearls, perfumes, Arabian pottery, Persian earthenware, and Chinese porcelain, handling much of the commerce across the Indian Ocean.

　　The ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani preserve spectacular remains—exquisitely preserved sub-Saharan Islamic architecture renowned worldwide. These ruins, along with the stone town ruins a few kilometers south of the island and the deserted rectangular houses, make this area a historic hub of the south. Small fishing villages dot the coastline, and this place has remained virtually unchanged even as other parts of the country have developed.

　　The Songo Mnara ruins, located on the northern part of Songo Mnara Island, were built in the late 14th century and were once a bustling trade center that controlled much of the commerce along the Indian Ocean. To this day, five well-preserved mosques and numerous residential compounds enclosed by low walls remain. In the southwestern part of the site stands a palace, consisting of a large courtyard surrounded by houses. Most interiors of these houses are decorated with blue ceramics and feature domed roofs.

　　Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Ruins of Songo Mnara Must-visit reason: One of the most prosperous ancient trade center ruins Continent: Africa [Africa] Country/Region: Tanzania [Tanzania] Province/State: Lindi Region [Lindi Region]