Zanzibar and Lamu - Two Ancient on the East African Coastline
Lamu and Zanzibar, two ancient towns on the coast of East Africa
Historical Perspectives of East Africa Assignment
Lecturer: Mr Bagaja
Student Number: TTM-08-13
Student Name : Mutunga Katia
Date Submitted: 23/ 10/ 2010
Lamu “The oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa “ World Heritage Site List
Background
The island of Lamu is situated on the north coast of Kenya. Lamu town is the largest town on Lamu Island, which in turn is a part of the Lamu Archipelago in Kenya. | It is currently populated by a variety of peoples including native Banjuni, Galla, Swahili, Arab and the most recent additions- Caucasians. Lamu Old Town was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. As a listed site the Old Town is protected by international law from anything that could harm or destroy its unique structure. The inscription was completed for the following reasons: | |
1) The town's buildings physically show us how important human interactions have come together over hundreds of years, to create a distinct culture.
2) The town is the best example of the growth and decline of East Africa's seaports, and this significant stage of human history.
3) The town has an important religious function in the region. It continues to be a significant centre for education in Islamic and Swahili culture.
Lamu's exceptional architecture and welcoming people are testament to its long history of diverse cultural influence.
The island of Lamu seems to have stopped in time and is stuck in the 14th century. This 'Lost in Time' island has a quaint charm and laid back way of life and is bound to lull every visitor into its slow rhythm.
The town is once again prospering with an influx of new peoples from around the world, here to experience everything the Old Town has to offer.
History
By the 14th Century, Lamu already existed as a rich trading city-state, exporting ivory, timber, amber and spices, while importing luxury goods such as porcelain and carpets
Historical Perspectives of East Africa Assignment
Lecturer: Mr Bagaja
Student Number: TTM-08-13
Student Name : Mutunga Katia
Date Submitted: 23/ 10/ 2010
Lamu “The oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa “ World Heritage Site List
Background
The island of Lamu is situated on the north coast of Kenya. Lamu town is the largest town on Lamu Island, which in turn is a part of the Lamu Archipelago in Kenya. | It is currently populated by a variety of peoples including native Banjuni, Galla, Swahili, Arab and the most recent additions- Caucasians. Lamu Old Town was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. As a listed site the Old Town is protected by international law from anything that could harm or destroy its unique structure. The inscription was completed for the following reasons: | |
1) The town's buildings physically show us how important human interactions have come together over hundreds of years, to create a distinct culture.
2) The town is the best example of the growth and decline of East Africa's seaports, and this significant stage of human history.
3) The town has an important religious function in the region. It continues to be a significant centre for education in Islamic and Swahili culture.
Lamu's exceptional architecture and welcoming people are testament to its long history of diverse cultural influence.
The island of Lamu seems to have stopped in time and is stuck in the 14th century. This 'Lost in Time' island has a quaint charm and laid back way of life and is bound to lull every visitor into its slow rhythm.
The town is once again prospering with an influx of new peoples from around the world, here to experience everything the Old Town has to offer.
History
By the 14th Century, Lamu already existed as a rich trading city-state, exporting ivory, timber, amber and spices, while importing luxury goods such as porcelain and carpets