World Heritage Identification Number: 1720
World Heritage since: 2024
Category: Cultural Heritage
Transboundary Heritage: No
Endangered Heritage: No
Country: 🇰🇪 Kenya
Continent: Africa
UNESCO World Region: Africa
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Exploring the Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi: A Window into Swahili Civilization
The Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi, situated along the Indian Ocean coast of eastern Kenya, offers a captivating glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Swahili civilization. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2024, this abandoned city stands as a testament to its former prominence as one of the most significant Swahili cities during the 10th to 17th centuries.
More to come…UNESCO Description of the World Heritage Site
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.
Encyclopedia Record: Ruins of Gedi
The ruins of Gedi are a UNESCO World Heritage site near the Indian Ocean coast of eastern Kenya. The site is adjacent to the town of Gedi in the Kilifi District and within the Arabuko-Sokoke Forest.Additional Site Details
Area: 20.81 hectares
(iii) — Unique or exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition
(iv) — Outstanding example of a type of building or landscape
Coordinates: -3.3102638889 , 40.0172638889
Image
© Mgiganteus, CC BY-SA 3.0 Resized from original. (This derivative is under the same CC BY-SA license.)
