Mnarani Ruins – Historic Site in Kilifi

Mnarani Ruins are the remains of a medieval Swahili town on high ground beside Kilifi Creek, about 56 km north of Mombasa along the Mombasa–Malindi highway. The site is managed by the National Museums of Kenya and is easy to reach from Kilifi town.

Mnarani, meaning "place of minarets" in Swahili, grew as a trading and Islamic learning centre linked to merchants from Arabia and Persia. Visitors can see the ruins of two mosques, one with remains of a carved mihrab, and stone pillar tombs with inscriptions that are among the finest examples of Swahili funerary architecture. Large old baobab trees shade the site, and its elevated position gives views towards the Indian Ocean.

The town declined centuries ago, probably because of local conflict and Portuguese raids along the coast. Today guides explain the history on request, and the site is popular with school groups, researchers and photographers. Modest entry fees apply, with discounts for students and groups.

Enquiries can go to the National Museums of Kenya on +254 721 308 485 or publicrelations@museums.or.ke. Visitor details are on the Mnarani Ruins page.