Back to Map
Somalia

Gondershe

Ancient stone city on coastal promontory

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

Gondershe, also known as Gandershe, is an archaeological site located on the Somali coast. It was once part of the Geledi Sultanate and is characterized by its unique Somali architecture, including coral stone houses, fortifications, tombs, and mosques. The town is historically significant as a trade hub during the medieval Ajuran period, facilitating commerce with regions such as India, Arabia, and Persia. This ancient stone city became a notable tourist destination in the mid to late 20th century. Gondershe's ruins offer insights into Somali architectural styles and the region's historical trade connections, with its citadel and shrine to Aw Usman Garweeyne being of particular interest.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Gondershe

FileGondereshe2008.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Defensive Structures

Fortifications

Burial and Funerary Structures

Tombs

Religious and Ritual Structures

Mosques

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Towns

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Somalia
Source
Wikipedia