Jumba la Mtwana: A Historical Site with Unique Cultural Significance
Jumba la Mtwana is a historical site situated in the Kenyan coastal town of Mombasa. It is considered to be a sacred site of the Mijikenda people, who have inhabited this stretch of the Indian Ocean coast for centuries. This site is a unique representation of the Mijikenda’s traditional cultural practices and is home to several ancient ruins, including a large fort. Jumba la Mtwana is a popular tourist destination and a great place to learn more about the Mijikenda’s history and culture.
History of Jumba la Mtwana
Jumba la Mtwana is believed to have been built in the 16th century by the Mijikenda people. The Mijikenda are a group of nine distinct tribes: Kauma, Chonyi, Duruma, Giriama, Kambe, Ribe, Rabai, Jibana, and Digo. They are believed to have originated in the Horn of Africa and migrated to the East African coast over a period of many centuries.
The Mijikenda built Jumba la Mtwana as a large fortified settlement to protect their people and resources from invaders. The fort is believed to have been built with coral boulders and mud, and it is said to have been surrounded by a five-meter wide ditch. The fort was divided into 20 sections, each with its own unique purpose.
The site was abandoned in the late 19th century after suffering several attacks from Arab merchants and the Portuguese colonial forces. Over the centuries, the site has been damaged and many of its structures have been destroyed.
What to See at Jumba la Mtwana
Jumba la Mtwana is a fascinating site that offers visitors the chance to explore and learn about the Mijikenda people’s history and culture. The site is home to several ancient ruins, including the large fort. The fort is surrounded by walls that are still standing and visitors can explore the walls and the ruins of various structures within the fort.
The site also has several smaller ruins, including the remains of several huts and tombs, as well as several ancient wells. Visitors can also find traces of the fort’s original moat and several other features that indicate the fort’s former grandeur.
In addition to exploring the ruins, visitors can also learn about the Mijikenda culture and their traditional beliefs. The site is home to a traditional shrine where visitors can learn about the Mijikenda people’s spiritual practices. The site also offers a unique opportunity to explore the Mijikenda people’s traditional way of life and to discover more about their culture.
Getting to Jumba la Mtwana
Jumba la Mtwana is located just outside the city of Mombasa, in the coastal region of Kenya. The site is easily accessible by road and there are several buses and matatus that run between Mombasa and the site. Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi to reach the site.
Visitors should also note that the site is open from 8:30am to 5:00pm on weekdays, and from 9:00am to 4:00pm on weekends.
Conclusion
Jumba la Mtwana is a fascinating historical site that offers visitors the chance to explore and learn about the Mijikenda people’s history and culture. The site is home to several ruins and ancient artifacts, and visitors can also learn about the Mijikenda’s traditional way of life and spiritual practices. It’s a unique destination that provides insight into Kenya’s rich cultural heritage and offers a memorable experience for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers alike. With its accessibility from Mombasa and its intriguing ruins, Jumba la Mtwana is definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in delving into the history and traditions of the Mijikenda people.