Gallery
Description
Property Name: Husuni Kubwa Palace
Inventory No: 255-27-2
Date of infill of the inventory form: 2008-02-26
Country (State party): Tanzania
Province: Tanga
Town: Kilwa
Geographic coordinates: 8°57’35.31″S
39°30’45.97″E
Historic Period:
Year of Construction: 1245, early 14th century
Style:
Original Use: Palace
Current Use: Archeological park
Architect: Unknown
Significance
The palace is the most magnificent Islamic complex in Africa south of the Sahara. It includes over one hundred rooms and terraces organized around sunken courtyards, an ornamental swimming pool, various domes and vaults, and charming decorations. The main elements of the palace are the large South court, the residential complex, and the steps going down to the beach. Most of the decorations are unique to the East African coast.
Selection Criteria
vi. to be directly or tangibly associated with events or living traditions, with ideas, or with beliefs, with artistic and literary works of outstanding universal significance
State of Preservation
İt was regulated with some restoration.
References
Ed. Mitchell, George. Architecture of the Islamic World. London: Thames and Hudson.
Garlake, Peter S. 1966. The Early Islamic Architecture of the East African Coast. London: Oxford University Press.
Archnet website: http://archnet.org