Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania

Postcard

The island of Kilwa Kisiwani is located in the south of Tanzania, a short boat ride from the mainland. It was once a thriving seaport; from the 11th century the sultans of Kilwa grew rich from control of the gold trade. 

At its height, in the 14th century, Kilwa Kisiwani was the single most important trading centre on the East African coast and its ruins include a number of mosques,  a well-preserved Omani fortress, graves, and the remnants of a Great Palace.  Together with the ruins of Songo Mnara, the ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani was declared a Unesco World Heritage site. 

Thx Steve!