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Tanzania

Kipumbwi

Medieval Swahili city state on coast

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

Kipumbwi, located in the Pangani District of Tanzania's Tanga Region, is notable for its historical significance as a medieval Swahili city state. This site is indicative of the Swahili coast's rich cultural and trade history during the Late Post-Classical Period, marked by its role as a city center. The city features typical Swahili architectural styles and urban organization that were prominent between the 11th and 15th centuries CE. This period was characterized by intense trade activity along the East African coast, linking African interior societies with those across the Indian Ocean. Kipumbwi's archaeological significance lies in its contribution to understanding the Swahili civilization's development, trade networks, and urbanization patterns during the medieval era.

Archaeological Features

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

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Cities

Historical Timeline

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Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Tanzania
Source
Wikipedia