Gedi or Gede Ruins, Watamu

An inner and outer wall surrounded the town of Gedi, most of the remains are located within the inner wall but there are some between the two walls.The Great Mosque was originally built in the mid-15th C, and then rebuilt a century later. It is typical East African design with a mihrab facing Mecca and a ritual washing area.Located behind the Mosque is the Palace, thought to belong to the ruler of Gedi. The Palace features an arched doorway that leads to a reception court and a hall. Several smaller rooms are located off the hall including bathrooms and a kitchen with a small well. Another interesting feature is a pillar tomb, used for men of position and influence.The houses in Gedi have a traditional Swahili pattern and have been named for their design or objects found within them. Some have ancient drawings on the plaster walls. Remains of bathrooms, complete with toilets, baths and basins can still be seen. A water system and a large number of wells are still visible on the site.Ming Chinese porcelain and glass as well as glazed earthenware from Persia indicate trade links and a taste for luxury by those who were prosperous in Gedi. These items as well as Spanish scissors and Swahili cultural artifacts are on display in the on-site museum.