Kenyan Historic Town List World Heritage Site In A Huge Tourism Boost
The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has designated the Gedi Ruins in Kilifi County as a World Heritage Site.
UNESCO announced on Saturday that the historical town would join seven other sites designated as heritage sites in previous years.
Gedi Ruins was recognised for its rich historical depictions of Kenyan Coast culture.
The site is particularly well-known for the building technology used in the facilities’ construction.
The historical site dates back to the 12th century and is recognized as one of the country’s national monuments.
The property is currently managed by the Kenya National Museums.
Good News: The Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi has been officially inscribed on the @UNESCO World Heritage list. This recognition highlights Gedi's cultural significance and rich history. This new inscription means Kenya now has 8 UNESCO World heritage sites, up… pic.twitter.com/LNdEfdcFDP
— Ummi Bashir, CBS (@UmmiMBashir) July 27, 2024
“Surrounded by a remnant coastal forest, away from the coastline, the abandoned city of Gedi was one of the most important Swahili cities on the East African coast from the 10th to 17th centuries. During this period, it was part of a complex and international network of trade and cultural exchanges that crossed the Indian Ocean, linking African coastal centres with Persia and other areas.
“The opulent settlement is clearly delineated by walls and features remains of domestic, religious, and civic architecture and a sophisticated water management system. It strongly represents the characteristics of Swahili architecture and town planning, utilising materials such as coral rag, coral and earth mortar and wood.”
- The listing is significant because it allows UNESCO to work with the government and local communities to protect and preserve these sites.
- This also aids in passing down knowledge and promotes tourism.
Following the announcement, Culture Principal Secretary Ummi Bashir stated that the recognition of the old site was a watershed moment for Kenya’s culture and tourism industries.
“Good News. The Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi has been officially inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
“This recognition highlights Gedi’s cultural significance and rich history. This new inscription means Kenya now has 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, up from 7 since 2018. A big thank you to the Museums of Kenya team who were instrumental in this process,” she stated.
Other UNESCO heritage sites in Kenya include Lake Turkana National Parks, Mount Kenya National Park/Natural Forest, Lamu Old Town, Sacred Mijikenda Kaya Forests, and Mombasa’s Fort Jesu.
The Kenya Lake System in the Great Rift Valley and the Thimlich Ohinga Archaeological Site in Migori County are both designated as Heritage Sites.
Kenyan Historic Town List World Heritage Site In A Huge Tourism Boost
