One of the grandest museums you will ever encounter in Kenya, it boasts of all the Swahili history and culture from decades ago. The Lamu Museum is one of the best spots to explore and understand the Swahili traditions, lifestyle, and the archipelago.They have a lot of things at showcases, such as domestic life and wedding traditions, door carvings, boat-building, ceremonial horns made of ivory and brass, and traditional silver jewellery. It is the Disneyland for history geeks, and we will have a fantastic time here.
History Of The Lamu Museum
A lady of noble descent, Mwana Esha Ahmed first built the Swahili warehouse as a nuclear family house. However, during the Colonial rule, the house was sold to the Government, then used by the Magistrate, and then by the district livestock. The district veterinary officer used the ground floor in the 80s, and they used the first floor as residents. Under their usage, the building was known as the Daktari Wa Ng’ombe house. Finally, it was used as a gas distribution depot until 1987, when the building exploded and was left to ruin. In 1999, the National Museums of Kenya acquired it and restored it to host multiple community functions. It is the flagship of five museums and research centres in Lamu Old Town. The artefacts that are showcased in the museum were collected by archaeologists, researchers, and enthusiasts from the 1900s. The museum was established in the 1960s.
The artefacts displayed a different time for the Swahili culture and their lives. You can see pieces representing various parts of their lives, such as furniture, silver jewellery, clothing, manuscripts, musical instruments, and various household and technical tools. These artefacts serve a purpose that goes beyond academia. It allows locals to come over regularly and see authentic representations of their elders and their lifestyle, and then they can relay those stories to their children. The works of Mohammed Kijumwa are displayed on the ground floor, and they consist of his artworks, ranging from poetry to wood carvings. The first floor houses several things, such as the most famous piece from Swahili culture, the Pate Ivory Siwa, collections from the Sanya, Boni, Pokomo, Orma, and Swahili cultures, including the Maulidid and Maritime galleries. Over time, many people found themselves either owning or residing in this house until it finally became the museum it is today.
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Things To Do In And Around The Lamu Museum
There are many things to do in and around the Lamu Museum. Here is a well-curated list of captivating places to make your trip memorable.
1. Visit Beaches In Lamu
Shela Beach is 2 km from Lamu, a place of peace and solitude. You can view the spectacular sight of the sun setting with the sun rays reflecting on the ocean, creating extraordinary scenery to capture. Bushy trees surround it, and a 12 km-long beach is perfect for spending time with your loved ones or just by yourself. Enjoy the long walk, the beautiful scenery, and the landscape of Lamu. It is a place to add to your to-do list.
Another intimate beach that you should visit is Manda Island. It is the perfect getaway from all the noise and crowds of people. Experience the calmness it offers amidst its scenery of bushes surrounding it and the beautiful coastline overlooking the Indian Ocean. It even offers exciting activities such as snorkelling, water skiing, deep-sea diving, and kite surfing.
2. Takwa Ruins
The old town of Takwa was resided by Swahili people who left the place around the 80s. They abandoned their homes due to the regular tensions between the people of Takwa and Pate. The ruins left hold a strong history of its people and their lifestyles. One of the most famous stories is of the mosque in this town under which a Shiekh was buried.
Today, due to its landscape and the beauty of the ruins, it is the perfect spot for families to have picnics and professionals to take photographs.
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3. The Lamu Island Festival
The island hosts various festivals throughout the year to celebrate its history and identity. Mohammed’s birthday, which is like Christmas, the Lamu Cultural Festival, and New Year are a few of the many celebrations that take place on the island.
Festivals require different events that allow people to have fun and bond with each other, such as donkey races, dhow races, tug of war, and many other fun activities. You must visit Lamu during one of these festivals to truly enjoy their culture.
4. The Pate Island
This island once belonged to the outcast Omani rulers. Nearby tourist attractions include Faza, Mtangawanda, Kizungitni, and many others, and they offer a wealth of history and culture.
The Situ Fort is one of the most popular and famous places on Pate Island. It offers scenic and panoramic views to all tourists, making it a perfect place to take your family and friends.
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Now that you have information on many things, it is time to book your trip to Kenya to learn about the Swahili people’s rich history and lifestyles. Enjoy observing and learning about the traditions and authentic artefacts they use daily. Enjoy the sunny weather of Lamu, one of the most scenic towns in Kenya. Soak up the sun and all the knowledge the Lamu Museum offers.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Lamu Museum
Which are the best shopping places in Kenya?
Places like the Westgate Shopping Mall, the Village Market of Nairobi, The Hub Karen Mall, are some of the best places in Kenya.
What souvenirs should one buy in Kenya?
Hand-carved wooden sculptures, Beaded bowls, Kitengela glass, and Maasai Beads are some of the things you should buy while visiting Kenya.
What are the traditional dishes found in Kenya?
Kenyan Stew, Sukuma Wiki, Kenyan Pilau, Githera, Irio, and Ugali are some of the most authentic Kenyan dishes you will ever get to eat.
What are the best tourist destinations in Kenya?
If you are visiting Kenya, you must visit places like Haller Prak, Kiboko Bay, Maasai Mara, David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, Mt. Elgon, Wasini Island, Jamia Mosque, The Great Rift Valley, and many more places. They must be on your bucket list to Kenya if you want to have the best experience there.
When is the best time to visit Kenya?
Visiting during the dry seasons is the best time to come to Kenya. The weather is dry and will not interfere with your plans; these seasons last from July to October and January to February.
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