![]() ![]() The socio-economic status of the individuals residing there could be clearly seen in the type of structure they were living in. Įvidence of growth in wealth can be seen with the appearance of stone buildings around the 13th century CE, before which all of the buildings were wattle-and-daub. Kilwa Kisiwani reached its highest point in wealth and commerce between 13th and 15th centuries CE. Much of the trade networks was with the Arabian peninsula. For these to take place, there would need to be a form of political administration overseeing the city, controlling the movement of goods. An important city for trade, around the 13th century there were increased fortifications and a greater flow of goods. The Swahili cemeteries were located on the edge of the town, which was common for the Swahili region, and large, open spaces were likely used for social gatherings. Many of the Swahili settlements showed complex layouts that reflected social relations between groups, however at Kilwa, there are many questions still left unanswered about the town's layout after the Portuguese burnt it to the ground in July 1505. ![]() ![]() Trade connections with the Arabian Peninsula as well as India and China influenced the growth and development of Kilwa, and, though there are Islamic words and customs that have been adapted to the culture, the origins are African. In 1331CE, Moroccan traveller and scholar Ibn Battuta visited Kilwa and described it as one of the beautiful cities in the world. The seasonal wind reversals would affect trade circulations. Historically, it was the center of the Kilwa Sultanate, a medieval Swahili sultanate whose authority at its height in the 13th-15th centuries stretched the entire length of the Swahili Coast. It was occupied by possibly Mwera people from across the mainland from at least the 8th century CE and eventually became one of the most powerful Swahili settlements along the East African coast. Kilwa Kisiwani is also an archaeological Swahili city-state site located along the Swahili Coast on the Kilwa Archipelago. Much of the historical artifacts and buildings on the island are yet to be unearthed. There are no roads on the island thus most transport is on foot or by motorcycle.Īlso to protect the historic integrity of the Island, non-island residents are strictly prohibited to visit the island without a visitors permit from the tourist information center in downtown Kilwa Masoko. The island's only electricity is solar based and low capacity. The island is served by small boats to and from the port at Kilwa Masoko. Many of the island's freshwater wells have been used for over a millennia. The island has no rivers thus the main source for water is wells. Economic growth is limited due to limited accessibility to the island. The main economic activities on the island are Cultural tourism, fishing and subsistence agriculture. The island is located with the Kilwa Masoko township authority. Residents of Kilwa Kisiwani dancing for overseas visitors. ![]()
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