Gede or Gedi (which in Oromo dialect means precious) is an ancient Arab-Swahili city dating back to the thirteenth century, immersed in the Arabuko Sokoke forest, and is a few km from Watamu and about 20 km from Malindi. Even today, despite various studies, it is not known for certain what happened to this ancient city and its approximately 2,500 inhabitants. Its story is not reported in any Arabic or Portuguese text dating back to that period.
From the various studies carried out, we have come to the conclusion that Gede was abandoned twice: the first time in 1500 and the second time, the definitive one, during the 1700s. Archaeologists, however, have not found signs of battles or plagues to justify the double evacuation. Scholars have two theories about it:
☀️ The first theory claims that the cause of the evacuations were the invasions of the Galla, a Somali ethnic group who often crossed the border and looted the villages.
☀️ The second theory claims that the village was originally located on the shore of the Indian Ocean. This, retreating, left the village in a state of drought forcing the inhabitants to leave.
Following the two evacuations, vegetation completely covered Gede, keeping it hidden until 1920. This complex of archaeological ruins officially became a national monument in 1927 and a National Park in 1948. In 2000, at the entrance to the site, a museum was inaugurated where it is possible to observe all the historical finds found inside the ancient city. Swahili culture is also briefly explained inside. A strategic platform has also been built from which a multitude of birds can be observed. Over time, it has become an excellent observation point for birdwatchers.
Gede is one of the few remaining historical sites in Kenya and is well worth a visit. It's not a very demanding trip and you spend an alternative afternoon to the usual 'beach life'
250 Euro
● Round-trip transportation
● Expert guides
● Ticket at the entrance
