Lamu Old Town
Lamu Old Town originated in the 13th century, it is the oldest and best preserved example of Swahili settlement in East Africa. The old city is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Built in coral stone and mangrove timber, the town is characterized by the simplicity of structural forms enriched by such features as inner courtyards, verandas, and elaborately carved wooden doors. Its like Africa 100 years ago, with some mix in of the 21th century. Women darken their eyes with kohl and ear full-length, black bui-buis, while men wear the traditional, embroidered kofia hats. There are several museums, including the Lamu Museum, home to the island’s ceremonial horn (called siwa).
Lamu has retained an important religious function with annual celebrations. The town has hosted Muslim religious festivals for over 100 years. More than 20,000 Muslims visit Lamu annually to mark the holy Maulidi Festival that also attracts tourists from East and Central Africa, Europe, North America, the Indian sub-continent and the Middle East every August.
