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175 images for SWAHILI CULTURE
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Siyu Fort. The Sultan of Zanzibar in the middle of the 19th century built this impressive fort at the end of the mangrove lin...
Siyu Fort. The Sultan of Zanzibar in the middle of the 19th century built this impressive fort at the end of the mangrove lined tidal channel leading to Siyu village on Pate Island. The fort is now undergoing extensive repairs after years of neglect.
The eyes of a Lamu woman wearing a traditional black Islamic dress and face veil. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Momba...
The eyes of a Lamu woman wearing a traditional black Islamic dress and face veil. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
At sunrise, fishing boats set sail from the sheltered, natural harbour of Kisingitini on Pate Island for a days fishing. Thes...
At sunrise, fishing boats set sail from the sheltered, natural harbour of Kisingitini on Pate Island for a days fishing. These traditional wooden sailing boats, called mashua, can be found throughout the Lamu Archipelago.
Zanzibar. Tanzania. East Africa. A Zanzibari teenager wearing a red Tee Shirt. Stone Town Central Market.
The 17th century tomb of Mwenya Bunu among ruins on the outskirts of modern Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate were cons...
The 17th century tomb of Mwenya Bunu among ruins on the outskirts of modern Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate were constructed of coral rag. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
A Swahili woman winnows grain outside her home while her young son grasps a large pestle and mortar beside her. Her house, li...
A Swahili woman winnows grain outside her home while her young son grasps a large pestle and mortar beside her. Her house, like most others in the village, is made of coral rag. The chequered history of Faza dates back several hundred years.
A Lamu woman wearing a traditional black Islamic dress and face veil Situated 150 miles north-northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town...
A Lamu woman wearing a traditional black Islamic dress and face veil Situated 150 miles north-northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
Siyu Fort. The Sultan of Zanzibar in the middle of the 19th century built this impressive fort at the end of the mangrove lin...
Siyu Fort. The Sultan of Zanzibar in the middle of the 19th century built this impressive fort at the end of the mangrove lined tidal channel leading to Siyu village on Pate Island. The fort is now undergoing extensive repairs after years of neglect.
Tobacco is grown among the coral ruins of a large 17th century building on the outskirts of modern Pate Village. All the buil...
Tobacco is grown among the coral ruins of a large 17th century building on the outskirts of modern Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate were constructed of coral rag. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
A man rides a donkey sidesaddle through one of the narrow streets of Lamu town. In the absence of vehicles, which are banned ...
A man rides a donkey sidesaddle through one of the narrow streets of Lamu town. In the absence of vehicles, which are banned in the island, donkeys are the principal means of transport and carrying heavy loads. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
The interior of a traditional multi-storied Swahili house in Lamu Town. The Swahili house was designed as an inward looking s...
The interior of a traditional multi-storied Swahili house in Lamu Town. The Swahili house was designed as an inward looking self contained complex with a plan organized around a central courtyard. The thick walls of these houses make the rooms cool even in the hottest weather.
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress set out in procession to celebrate Maulidi, the Pr...
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress set out in procession to celebrate Maulidi, the Prophet Mohameds birthday. They dance and sing with religious fervour along the waterfront street before concluding their celebrations at the Riyadha Mosque. Maulidi is a joyous event in Lamu and attracts pilgrims from all over East Africa and sometimes farther afield.
The waterfront of the old historic town of Faza on Pate Island can only be approached by sailing boats at high tide along a t...
The waterfront of the old historic town of Faza on Pate Island can only be approached by sailing boats at high tide along a tidal inlet lined with mangrove trees. The chequered history of Faza dates back several hundred years.
A man rides a donkey in one of the narrow streets of Lamu town. In the absence of vehicles, which are banned in the island, d...
A man rides a donkey in one of the narrow streets of Lamu town. In the absence of vehicles, which are banned in the island, donkeys are the principal means of carrying heavy loads. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
A woman makes makuti, a thatch from dried fronds of coconut palms, outside her home in Faza village. The chequered history of...
A woman makes makuti, a thatch from dried fronds of coconut palms, outside her home in Faza village. The chequered history of Faza dates back several hundred years. It was destroyed by Pate in the 13th century and again by the Portuguese in 1586.
A typical street scene in Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag with makuti roofs, which are a...
A typical street scene in Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag with makuti roofs, which are a type of thatch made from coconut palm fronds. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
The ruins of a mosque inside Siyu Fort. The Sultan of Zanzibar in the middle of the 19th century built an impressive fort at ...
The ruins of a mosque inside Siyu Fort. The Sultan of Zanzibar in the middle of the 19th century built an impressive fort at the end of the mangrove-lined tidal channel leading to Siyu village on Pate Island. The fort is now undergoing extensive repairs after years of neglect.
A typical street scene in one of the poorer areas of Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag wit...
A typical street scene in one of the poorer areas of Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag with makuti roofs, which are a type of thatch made from coconut palm fronds. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
A typical street scene in Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag with makuti roofs, which are a...
A typical street scene in Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag with makuti roofs, which are a type of thatch made from coconut palm fronds. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
An elderly man strides past a large double storied building in Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of cor...
An elderly man strides past a large double storied building in Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag with makuti roofs, which are a type of thatch made from coconut palm fronds. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
In the late afternoon, Lamu men in traditional Islamic dress gather to dance and sing in the square outside the Riyadha Mosqu...
In the late afternoon, Lamu men in traditional Islamic dress gather to dance and sing in the square outside the Riyadha Mosque to celebrate Maulidi, the Prophet Mohameds birthday. This is a major event in Lamu and attracts pilgrims from all over East Africa and sometimes farther afield.
A Zanzibari woman and child walking past a beautiful carved door. Stone Town. Zanzibar. Tanzania.
A Lamu woman demonstrates the use of the shiraa, a tent like cloth held up with two sticks, which obscured the face and body ...
A Lamu woman demonstrates the use of the shiraa, a tent like cloth held up with two sticks, which obscured the face and body of a woman when she ventured outside her home one hundred years ago. Situated 150 miles north -northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
A man rides a donkey sidesaddle through one of the narrow streets of Lamu town. In the absence of vehicles, which are banned ...
A man rides a donkey sidesaddle through one of the narrow streets of Lamu town. In the absence of vehicles, which are banned in the island, donkeys are the principal means of transport and carrying heavy loads. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
A Swahili woman winnows grain outside her home while her young son grasps a large pestle and mortar beside her. Her house, li...
A Swahili woman winnows grain outside her home while her young son grasps a large pestle and mortar beside her. Her house, like most others in the village, is made of coral rag. The chequered history of Faza dates back several hundred years.
A young Swahili girl in the fishing village of Kisingitini, a natural harbour on Pate Island. Almost the entire population of...
A young Swahili girl in the fishing village of Kisingitini, a natural harbour on Pate Island. Almost the entire population of Pate Island is Muslim. Kisingitini is the centre of the island's fishing industry with crayfish being the fishermen's prized catch. The island is the largest of the Lamu Archipelago lying in the Indian Ocean just north of Lamu and 150 miles north-northeast of Mombasa.
A Swahili woman in Lamu makes makuti, a coconut palm thatch used extensively as a roofing material on houses all along the Ea...
A Swahili woman in Lamu makes makuti, a coconut palm thatch used extensively as a roofing material on houses all along the East African Coast. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
A woman makes makuti, a thatch from dried fronds of coconut palms, outside her home in Faza village. The chequered history of...
A woman makes makuti, a thatch from dried fronds of coconut palms, outside her home in Faza village. The chequered history of Faza dates back several hundred years. It was destroyed by Pate in the 13th century and again by the Portuguese in 1586.
A Swahili woman in brightly coloured attire stands on the upstairs balcony of her storied house in Pate Village. All the buil...
A Swahili woman in brightly coloured attire stands on the upstairs balcony of her storied house in Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag with makuti roofs, which are a type of thatch made from coconut palm fronds. Their wooden doors and frames are often beautifully carved. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
The Lamu Museum boasts a fine example of a 19th century carved and decorated wooden door. Wood carving is the most important ...
The Lamu Museum boasts a fine example of a 19th century carved and decorated wooden door. Wood carving is the most important craft in Lamu and sustains the greatest number of skilled craftsmen.
A Lamu woman demonstrates the use of the shiraa, a tent like cloth held up with two sticks, which obscured the face and body ...
A Lamu woman demonstrates the use of the shiraa, a tent like cloth held up with two sticks, which obscured the face and body of a woman when she ventured outside her home one hundred years ago. Situated 150 miles north -northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
Zanzibari woman in traditional khanga shopping at a fruit and vegetable stall in the Central Market. Stone Town. Zanzibar. Ta...
Zanzibari woman in traditional khanga shopping at a fruit and vegetable stall in the Central Market. Stone Town. Zanzibar. Tanzania. East Africa.
A Swahili woman dressed in black to signify her Muslim faith walks through the narrow streets of Lamu town. Situated 150 mile...
A Swahili woman dressed in black to signify her Muslim faith walks through the narrow streets of Lamu town. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
A Swahili woman dressed in black to signify her Muslim faith walks through the narrow streets of Lamu town. Situated 150 mile...
A Swahili woman dressed in black to signify her Muslim faith walks through the narrow streets of Lamu town. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
A view over makuti thatched roofs to the estuary that divides Lamu Island from uninhabited Manda Island, which has no permane...
A view over makuti thatched roofs to the estuary that divides Lamu Island from uninhabited Manda Island, which has no permanent source of sweet groundwater. Mashuas, the small wooden sailing boats of the East African Coast carry passengers and cargo from nearby Kenya mainland to the island.
The ruins of a large Swahili house on the outskirts of modern Pate Village. Of coral construction, the inner wall features de...
The ruins of a large Swahili house on the outskirts of modern Pate Village. Of coral construction, the inner wall features decorated niches, called zidaka, in which Swahili women traditionally put their imported Chinese porcelain and bowls. The tradition of fine plasterwork in the region survives to this day.
Soon after sunrise each day the fishing fleet sets sail from the sheltered, natural harbour of Kisingitini on Pate Island. Th...
Soon after sunrise each day the fishing fleet sets sail from the sheltered, natural harbour of Kisingitini on Pate Island. The traditional wooden sailing boats, called mashua, can be found at fishing villages throughout the Lamu Archipelago.
Muslim men maintain rhythm with tambourines during a performance of the Shabuwani along the waterfront at Lamu town. Situated...
Muslim men maintain rhythm with tambourines during a performance of the Shabuwani along the waterfront at Lamu town. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
Abdul Malik Bilali recites the Holy Koran in his beautiful stone built house in Lamus old town. The house has fine example of...
Abdul Malik Bilali recites the Holy Koran in his beautiful stone built house in Lamus old town. The house has fine example of decorative Lamu plasterwork gracing the interior walls. The extraordinary skill of the local craftsmen is an important legacy of Afro Arab architecture in the Swahili style. local Swahili style and culture.
A typical street scene in one of the poorer areas of Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag wit...
A typical street scene in one of the poorer areas of Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag with makuti roofs, which are a type of thatch made from coconut palm fronds. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
A pretty Lamu girl has applied jewels on two of her teeth for beauty. When she leaves her home, she will must likely wear a f...
A pretty Lamu girl has applied jewels on two of her teeth for beauty. When she leaves her home, she will must likely wear a face veil as a sign of Islamic modesty. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
Zanzibar.Tanzania. Typical alleyway in Stone Town, showing the Old Carved Doors and Zanzibari woman wearing the tradional Kha...
Zanzibar.Tanzania. Typical alleyway in Stone Town, showing the Old Carved Doors and Zanzibari woman wearing the tradional Khanga robes.
Lamu town already existed in the 14th and 15th centuries and flourished more recently between 1650 and 1900. The town is said...
Lamu town already existed in the 14th and 15th centuries and flourished more recently between 1650 and 1900. The town is said to have been founded by one or more royal immigrants from the Arabian or Persian regions on the Caliphate. In culture, Lamu belongs to the distinctive civilization called Swahili.
In the late afternoon, Muslim men perform the Shabuwani along the waterfront at Lamu town during the annual Lamu festival. Si...
In the late afternoon, Muslim men perform the Shabuwani along the waterfront at Lamu town during the annual Lamu festival. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
A skilled craftsman puts the finishes touches to a replica of a Pate Island chair. Wood carving is the most important craft i...
A skilled craftsman puts the finishes touches to a replica of a Pate Island chair. Wood carving is the most important craft in Lamu and sustains the greatest number of artisans. Fine marquetry work is another age old skill of local craftsmen. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
Kenya, Lamu Island, Traditional Swahili Culture Wood Carving Detail With Tools Lying On Top
A Swahili woman dressed in black to signify her Muslim faith walks through the narrow streets of Lamu town. Situated 150 mile...
A Swahili woman dressed in black to signify her Muslim faith walks through the narrow streets of Lamu town. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress sing before joining a procession to celebrate Maul...
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress sing before joining a procession to celebrate Maulidi, the Prophet Mohameds birthday. Tambourines are played in mosques on the island but they are seldom used in Islamic culture elsewhere. Maulidi is a major event in Lamu attracting pilgrims from all over East Africa and sometimes farther afield.
A man rides a donkey and a young boy bicycles along the waterfront of Lamu town, this is the islands widest road. In the abse...
A man rides a donkey and a young boy bicycles along the waterfront of Lamu town, this is the islands widest road. In the absence of vehicles, which are banned in the island, donkeys are the principal means of transport and carrying heavy loads.
A fine example of a carved wooden door in Lamu town. Wood carving is the most important craft in Lamu and sustains the greate...
A fine example of a carved wooden door in Lamu town. Wood carving is the most important craft in Lamu and sustains the greatest number of skilled craftsmen. It will take experienced craftsmen eight man-months to make such a beautiful door and frame.
A group of Lamu women wearing traditional Islamic dress and face veils gather for a festive occasion. Situated 150 miles nort...
A group of Lamu women wearing traditional Islamic dress and face veils gather for a festive occasion. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
A Swahili woman dressed in black to signify her Muslim faith walks through the narrow streets of Lamu town. Situated 150 mile...
A Swahili woman dressed in black to signify her Muslim faith walks through the narrow streets of Lamu town. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
Swahili women in brightly coloured attire walk through the narrow streets of Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are cons...
Swahili women in brightly coloured attire walk through the narrow streets of Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag with makuti roofs, which are a type of thatch made from coconut palm fronds. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
A skilled craftsman with traditional tools carves a wooden door from hardwood in Lamu town. Wood carving is the most importan...
A skilled craftsman with traditional tools carves a wooden door from hardwood in Lamu town. Wood carving is the most important craft in Lamu and sustains the greatest number of skilled craftsmen. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
Lamu crowds watch a stick fight along the waterfront at Lamu town. This form of combat originates from Oman and demonstrates ...
Lamu crowds watch a stick fight along the waterfront at Lamu town. This form of combat originates from Oman and demonstrates the close ties between the Lamu archipelago and Oman more than one hundred years ago. Situated 150 miles nort northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
A Swahili woman leaves her large double storied building in Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral ...
A Swahili woman leaves her large double storied building in Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag with makuti roofs, which are a type of thatch made from coconut palm fronds. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
The Peace Memorial Museum. Stone Town. Zanzibar.Tanzania. Formerly the National Museum, it is know locally as The House of Pe...
The Peace Memorial Museum. Stone Town. Zanzibar.Tanzania. Formerly the National Museum, it is know locally as The House of Peace. The last of English architect J.H. Sinclairs creations and opened in 1925.
A Lamu man strings the back of a traditional Lamu style chair embellished with marquetry. Situated 150 miles north-northeast ...
A Lamu man strings the back of a traditional Lamu style chair embellished with marquetry. Situated 150 miles north-northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
Lamu women are expert in intricate hand and body designs using henna and other dyes. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mo...
Lamu women are expert in intricate hand and body designs using henna and other dyes. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
One of the narrow shopping streets in Lamu town. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th...
One of the narrow shopping streets in Lamu town. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
A rooftop view of Lamu town. Situated 150 miles north-northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD. The isl...
A rooftop view of Lamu town. Situated 150 miles north-northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD. The islands importance lies in the fact that it has the only certain source of sweet groundwater in the entire district.
A Swahili woman in Lamu grinds rice using an old hand operated grinding wheel. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa,...
A Swahili woman in Lamu grinds rice using an old hand operated grinding wheel. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
A Swahili student in Lamu practices Arabic calligraphy. Each year, students on the island participate in a competition to kee...
A Swahili student in Lamu practices Arabic calligraphy. Each year, students on the island participate in a competition to keep this art alive. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress set out in procession to celebrate Maulidi, the Pr...
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress set out in procession to celebrate Maulidi, the Prophet Mohameds birthday. They dance and sing with religious fervour along the waterfront street before concluding their celebrations at the Riyadha Mosque. Maulidi is a joyous event in Lamu and attracts pilgrims from all over East Africa and sometimes farther afield.
Kenya, Muslim women from Lamu pause beside the ruins of a once-imposing C19th residence near the Wa Deule Mosque at Shela.
A typical street scene in the fishing village of Kisingitini, a natural harbour on Pate Island. Almost all the houses there a...
A typical street scene in the fishing village of Kisingitini, a natural harbour on Pate Island. Almost all the houses there are constructed of coral rag or from coral blocks with thatch made from coconut palm fronds, known as makuti. With no roads or cars on the island, donkeys are rode and used to carry loads.
Outside The Anglican Cathedral, a sculpture of four slaves chained in a pit. Stone Town. Zanzibar. Tanzania.
Two Zanzibari women in traditional khanga robes, walking past a magnificent carved wooden door. Stone Town. Zanzibar. Tanzani...
Two Zanzibari women in traditional khanga robes, walking past a magnificent carved wooden door. Stone Town. Zanzibar. Tanzania. East Africa.
Lamu women are expert in intricate hand and body designs using henna and other dyes. Henna stains skin an orange-red hue and ...
Lamu women are expert in intricate hand and body designs using henna and other dyes. Henna stains skin an orange-red hue and its thick brownish paste must not be removed for at least an hour after application. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
Two Zanzibari women walking on a typical narrow street in Stone Town. Zanzibar. Tanzania. East Africa.
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress set out in procession to celebrate Maulidi, the Pr...
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress set out in procession to celebrate Maulidi, the Prophet Mohameds birthday. They dance and sing with religious fervour along the waterfront street before concluding their celebrations at the Riyadha Mosque. Maulidi is a joyous event in Lamu and attracts pilgrims from all over East Africa and sometimes farther afield.
A Swahili woman of Pate Island wears vipete gold earrings that were widely worn in Pate Village as a manifestation of a perso...
A Swahili woman of Pate Island wears vipete gold earrings that were widely worn in Pate Village as a manifestation of a persons wealth. They are very rarely seen today. Gold rings in a womans nose are also ornaments that are no longer in fashion. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
A fine example of the interior of a traditional Swahili house in Lamu Town. The extraordinary skill of the local craftsmen is...
A fine example of the interior of a traditional Swahili house in Lamu Town. The extraordinary skill of the local craftsmen is an important legacy of Afro Arab architecture in the Swahili style.
The busy harbour at Lamu Island. Lamu town already existed in the 14th and 15th centuries and flourished more recently betwee...
The busy harbour at Lamu Island. Lamu town already existed in the 14th and 15th centuries and flourished more recently between 1650 and 1900. The town is said to have been founded by one or more royal immigrants from the Arabian or Persian regions on the Caliphate. In culture, Lamu belongs to the distinctive civilisation called Swahili.
A Swahili man in traditional attire blows the Siwa on the battlements of the Lamu Museum. This unique and hugely heavy ritual...
A Swahili man in traditional attire blows the Siwa on the battlements of the Lamu Museum. This unique and hugely heavy ritual horn was used before the 19th century in Pate and Lamu Islands to herald religious and festive occasions or to alert the community of danger.
Seated on a typical coast stool, a Swahili man stitches strips of woven palm fronds into a mat in one of Pate's narrow street...
Seated on a typical coast stool, a Swahili man stitches strips of woven palm fronds into a mat in one of Pate's narrow streets. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag with makuti roofs, which are a type of thatch made from coconut palm fronds. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress set out in procession to celebrate Maulidi, the Pr...
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress set out in procession to celebrate Maulidi, the Prophet Mohameds birthday. They dance and sing with religious fervour along the waterfront street before concluding their celebrations at the Riyadha Mosque. Maulidi is a joyous event in Lamu and attracts pilgrims from all over East Africa and sometimes farther afield.
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress set out in procession to celebrate Maulidi, the Pr...
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress set out in procession to celebrate Maulidi, the Prophet Mohameds birthday. They dance and sing with religious fervour along the waterfront street before concluding their celebrations at the Riyadha Mosque. Maulidi is a joyous event in Lamu and attracts pilgrims from all over East Africa and sometimes farther afield.
A Zanzibari man arranging fresh vegetables for sale outside Stone Town Central Market. Zanzibar. Tanzania. East Africa.
The harbour at Lamu Island. Lamu town already existed in the 14th and 15th centuries and flourished more recently between 165...
The harbour at Lamu Island. Lamu town already existed in the 14th and 15th centuries and flourished more recently between 1650 and 1900. The town is said to have been founded by one or more royal immigrants from the Arabian or Persian regions on the Caliphate. In culture, Lamu belongs to the distinctive civilisation called Swahili.
An inhabitant of Pate village rides his donkey through ruins on the outskirts of modern Pate Village. With no roads or motor ...
An inhabitant of Pate village rides his donkey through ruins on the outskirts of modern Pate Village. With no roads or motor vehicles on the island, donkeys are used widely to ride or transport goods from one village to another. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
A man embroiders a Swahili hat along the waterfront at Kisingitini, a natural harbour on Pate Island. It takes hours of patie...
A man embroiders a Swahili hat along the waterfront at Kisingitini, a natural harbour on Pate Island. It takes hours of patience and great skill to finish a really fine hat, which will be prized by Muslims throughout the Lamu Archipelago and elsewhere.
A skilled craftsman puts the finishes touches to a replica of a Pate Island chair. Wood carving is the most important craft i...
A skilled craftsman puts the finishes touches to a replica of a Pate Island chair. Wood carving is the most important craft in Lamu and sustains the greatest number of artisans. Fine marquetry work is another age old skill of local craftsmen. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
An historic tomb of a prominent 19th century lady and her daughter on the outskirts of Siyu. The recesses on the exterior of ...
An historic tomb of a prominent 19th century lady and her daughter on the outskirts of Siyu. The recesses on the exterior of the main tomb were inlaid with Chinese porcelain bowls, which have all been stolen or vandalised over the past fifty years.
A Swahili woman in brightly coloured attire walks through the narrow streets of Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are c...
A Swahili woman in brightly coloured attire walks through the narrow streets of Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag with makuti roofs, which are a type of thatch made from coconut palm fronds. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
A Swahili woman of Pate Island wears vipete gold earrings that were widely worn in Pate Village as a manifestation of a perso...
A Swahili woman of Pate Island wears vipete gold earrings that were widely worn in Pate Village as a manifestation of a persons wealth. They are very rarely seen today. Gold rings in a womans nose are also ornaments that are no longer in fashion. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
A Swahili man walks to the entrance of his house in Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag. Pat...
A Swahili man walks to the entrance of his house in Pate Village. All the buildings in Pate are constructed of coral rag. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
A man guides his donkey through one of the narrow streets of Lamu town. In the absence of vehicles, which are banned in the i...
A man guides his donkey through one of the narrow streets of Lamu town. In the absence of vehicles, which are banned in the island, donkeys are the principal means of carrying heavy loads. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
Lamu crowds watch a stick fight along the waterfront at Lamu town. This form of combat originates from Oman and demonstrates ...
Lamu crowds watch a stick fight along the waterfront at Lamu town. This form of combat originates from Oman and demonstrates the close ties between the Lamu archipelago and Oman more than one hundred years ago. Situated 150 miles nort northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress gather to pray at Lamus Islamic graveyard before s...
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress gather to pray at Lamus Islamic graveyard before setting out in procession to celebrate Maulidi, the Prophet Mohameds birthday. This is a major event in Lamu and attracts pilgrims from all over East Africa and sometimes farther afield.
At sunrise, fishing boats set sail from the sheltered, natural harbour of Kisingitini on Pate Island for a days fishing. Thes...
At sunrise, fishing boats set sail from the sheltered, natural harbour of Kisingitini on Pate Island for a days fishing. These traditional wooden sailing boats, called mashua, can be found throughout the Lamu Archipelago.
A woman and her children at Faza village on Pate Island, which can only be approached by sailing boats at high tide along a t...
A woman and her children at Faza village on Pate Island, which can only be approached by sailing boats at high tide along a tidal inlet lined with mangrove trees. The chequered history of Faza dates back several hundred years.
The harbour at Lamu Island. Lamu town already existed in the 14th and 15th centuries and flourished more recently between 165...
The harbour at Lamu Island. Lamu town already existed in the 14th and 15th centuries and flourished more recently between 1650 and 1900. The town is said to have been founded by one or more royal immigrants from the Arabian or Persian regions on the Caliphate. In culture, Lamu belongs to the distinctive civilisation called Swahili.
Soon after sunrise each day the fishing fleet sets sail from the sheltered, natural harbour of Kisingitini on Pate Island. Th...
Soon after sunrise each day the fishing fleet sets sail from the sheltered, natural harbour of Kisingitini on Pate Island. The traditional wooden sailing boats, called mashua, can be found at fishing villages throughout the Lamu Archipelago.
Lamu crowds watch a stick fight along the waterfront at Lamu town. This form of combat originates from Oman and demonstrates ...
Lamu crowds watch a stick fight along the waterfront at Lamu town. This form of combat originates from Oman and demonstrates the close ties between the Lamu archipelago and Oman more than one hundred years ago. Situated 150 miles nort northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
Lamu women are expert in intricate hand and body designs using henna and other dyes. Henna stains skin an orange-red hue and ...
Lamu women are expert in intricate hand and body designs using henna and other dyes. Henna stains skin an orange-red hue and its thick brownish paste must not be removed for at least an hour after application. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
A fine example of decorative Lamu plasterwork gracing the interior wall of an old stone house. The extraordinary skill of the...
A fine example of decorative Lamu plasterwork gracing the interior wall of an old stone house. The extraordinary skill of these craftsmen is an important legacy of Afro Arab architecture in the Swahili style.
Zanzibar. Tanzania. East Africa. A young Zanzibari women wearing the traditional khanga, buying freshly caught fish at Mkoton...
Zanzibar. Tanzania. East Africa. A young Zanzibari women wearing the traditional khanga, buying freshly caught fish at Mkotoni village fish market.
A collection of rusted cannons, which once defended the army garrison at Siyu Fort. The Sultan of Zanzibar in the middle of t...
A collection of rusted cannons, which once defended the army garrison at Siyu Fort. The Sultan of Zanzibar in the middle of the 19th century built Siyu Fort at the end of the mangrove lined tidal channel leading to Siyu village on Pate Island.
A Swahili man in traditional attire blows the Siwa on the battlements of the Lamu Museum. This unique and hugely heavy ritual...
A Swahili man in traditional attire blows the Siwa on the battlements of the Lamu Museum. This unique and hugely heavy ritual horn was used before the 19th century in Pate and Lamu Islands to herald religious and festive occasions or to alert the community of danger.
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress gather to pray at Lamus Islamic graveyard before s...
On a late Friday afternoon, Lamu men and boys in traditional Islamic dress gather to pray at Lamus Islamic graveyard before setting out in procession to celebrate Maulidi, the Prophet Mohameds birthday. This is a major event in Lamu and attracts pilgrims from all over East Africa and sometimes farther afield.
A Pate farmer tends his tobacco crop among the coral ruins of old Pate town. His Arabian origins are unmistakable. Pate was e...
A Pate farmer tends his tobacco crop among the coral ruins of old Pate town. His Arabian origins are unmistakable. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
Zanzibar. Tanzania. East Africa. Two young Zanzibari women walking through the narrow streets of Stone Town.
A fine example of decorative Lamu plasterwork gracing the interior wall of a recently restored house in Lamu town. The design...
A fine example of decorative Lamu plasterwork gracing the interior wall of a recently restored house in Lamu town. The design depicts a turtle. The extraordinary skill of Lamus master craftsmen is an important legacy of Afro Arab architecture in the Swahili style.
Food and drinks stalls in Forodhani Gardens. Early evening.The House of Wonders in the background. Stone Town. Zanzibar. Tanz...
Food and drinks stalls in Forodhani Gardens. Early evening.The House of Wonders in the background. Stone Town. Zanzibar. Tanzania.
A Swahili woman in Lamu makes makuti, a coconut palm thatch used extensively as a roofing material on houses all along the Ea...
A Swahili woman in Lamu makes makuti, a coconut palm thatch used extensively as a roofing material on houses all along the East African Coast. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
A Pate farmer tends his tobacco crop among the coral ruins of old Pate town. His Arabian origins are unmistakable. Pate was e...
A Pate farmer tends his tobacco crop among the coral ruins of old Pate town. His Arabian origins are unmistakable. Pate was established by Arabs from Arabia in the 13th century, or possibly earlier.
Soon after sunrise each day the fishing fleet sets sail from the sheltered, natural harbour of Kisingitini on Pate Island. Th...
Soon after sunrise each day the fishing fleet sets sail from the sheltered, natural harbour of Kisingitini on Pate Island. The traditional wooden sailing boats, called mashua, can be found at fishing villages throughout the Lamu Archipelago.
A Swahili man sits on a stone bench at the entrance to the compound of a large old house with a massive beam and decorated wo...
A Swahili man sits on a stone bench at the entrance to the compound of a large old house with a massive beam and decorated wooden doors. Like most others in Faza village, the house is made of coral rag. The chequered history of Faza dates back several hundred years.
Siyu Fort. The Sultan of Zanzibar in the middle of the 19th century built this impressive fort at the end of the mangrove lin...
Siyu Fort. The Sultan of Zanzibar in the middle of the 19th century built this impressive fort at the end of the mangrove lined tidal channel leading to Siyu village on Pate Island. The fort is now undergoing extensive repairs after years of neglect.
Zanzibar. Tanzania. A smiling Zanzibari youth selling herbs and spices from his stall at Kidichi Village.
A man embroiders Swahili hats, which are popular with Muslims on Lamu Island and elsewhere. It takes hours of patience and gr...
A man embroiders Swahili hats, which are popular with Muslims on Lamu Island and elsewhere. It takes hours of patience and great skill to make a really fine hat. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
Seated on a wooden stool outside her home in Faza village, an old Swahili woman makes twine out of the coir of rotted coconut...
Seated on a wooden stool outside her home in Faza village, an old Swahili woman makes twine out of the coir of rotted coconut husks. She does this by rolling the fibre up and down her thigh. The twine is highly resistant to salt water and is used for rigging in preference to nylon. The chequered history of Faza dates back several hundred years.
A group of Swahili women clad in black to signify their Islamic culture pause to chat outside an old mosque along the waterfr...
A group of Swahili women clad in black to signify their Islamic culture pause to chat outside an old mosque along the waterfront of Lamu Island. The majority of people on the island practice a fairly relaxed form of Islam. Situated 150 miles north northeast of Mombasa, Lamu town dates from the 15th century AD.
Old wooden door, Zanzibari woman and mobile Coca Cola stall. Stone Town. Zanzibar. Tanzania.
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