What is the Old City of Gedi and its archaeological site? The history of the site and its value as a World Heritage Site

This article briefly introduces the historical background and value of the Historic Town and Archaeological Site of Gedi, which will be registered as a World Heritage Site in 2024. By reading this overview, you will be able to understand why Gedi was evaluated as a World Heritage Site.

Old City of Gedi and Archaeological Site

Location and Overview of Gedi

Gedi is an ancient Swahili city in Kilifi County, Kenya. It lies about 6.5 km inland from the Indian Ocean coastline and is surrounded by lush coastal forest. Gedi flourished between the 10th and 17th centuries, with a particular prosperity during its "Golden Age" from the 12th to 15th centuries. The city was subsequently abandoned in the 17th century, but its ruins can still be seen today, showing well-preserved Swahili architecture and urban planning features.

Characteristics of Swahili architecture and urban planning

Gedi's architecture is built using local materials such as coral stone, coral and earth mortar, and wood. Influences from Arabia, South Asia, and Africa can be seen in the building façades, carved entrances, and lintel inscriptions. Gedi's urban plan is clearly divided into inner and outer walls, the inner wall containing the large houses, mosques, palaces, and tombs for the wealthy residents, while the outer wall contains the homes and farmland of the middle class. Gedi also has an advanced water management system, as evidenced by the in-house toilets, wells, and sunken courtyards.

The cultural and trade role of Geddi

Gedi was one of the most important Swahili cities on the East African coast and a centre of trade and cultural exchange across the Indian Ocean. Gedi was part of a trade network linking African coastal centres with Persia, India and Venice. Luxury goods from China, Persia, India and Venice found in Gedi indicate that the city was an important hub of an international trade network. Gedi was also involved in the spread of Islam, with many mosques and Islamic tombs built there. Thus, Gedi played an important role as a place of cultural and trade exchange, both regionally and internationally.

History of the Old City of Gedi and Archaeological Site

Origin and Development of Geddi

Gedi's origins date back to the 10th century, when it developed into an important Swahili city on the East African coast. The city flourished as a hub of trade and cultural exchange across the Indian Ocean, and like other cities along the African coast, it grew with influences from Arabia, Persia and India. Built using local materials such as coral stone and timber, Gedi became known for its unique architecture and urban planning. Divided by inner and outer walls, the city thrived as a settlement for wealthy merchants and landlords, and its sophisticated water management system and civic infrastructure supported the city's growth.

The Golden Age of Geddi (12th to 15th centuries)

Gedi reached its peak between the 12th and 15th centuries. This period is known as the "Golden Age" of Swahili civilization, and Gedi played a central role in it. Along with other Swahili cities along the East African coast, Gedi prospered as part of a trade network across the Indian Ocean. During this period, Gedi was known for its many luxury goods and trade items, including ceramics and jewellery imported from China, Persia, India and Venice. Gedi also contributed to the spread of Islam, and served as a religious centre, with many mosques and Islamic tombs built in the city.

The Abandonment of Geddi and Its Consequences

Gedi was suddenly abandoned in the 17th century. The reasons for this abandonment are not fully understood, but war, disease and changes in trade routes are believed to have been the causes. The abandonment of the city allowed Gedi's buildings and infrastructure to be preserved and remain intact to this day. This abandonment resulted in Gedi remaining a well-preserved feature of Swahili architecture and urban planning. The ruins of Gedi provide a valuable insight into Swahili urban life and culture at that time.

Contemporary research and conservation of Geddi

In modern times, the site of Gedi has been the subject of significant archaeological research. Archaeological investigations have been conducted since the 1920s, with many excavations and research continuing. Gedi is protected by the National Museums of Kenya (NMK) and is subject to regular monitoring and maintenance. Conservation activities include vegetation management and restoration of structures, using traditional building materials and methods. There is also collaboration with the local community, with education programs and tourism activities developed to convey the historical value of Gedi to future generations. Research and conservation activities at Gedi play an important role in deepening our understanding of Swahili culture and history.

Why the Old City of Gedi and its Archaeological Site were inscribed on the World Heritage List

Historical and cultural value

The old city and archaeological site of Gedi was inscribed on the World Heritage List for its historical and cultural value.

Contributions to Swahili civilization

Gedi contributed greatly to the development of Swahili civilization. Swahili culture formed its own unique culture while being influenced by Arabia, Persia, India, etc. As the center of this culture, Gedi played an important role in various aspects such as architecture, religion, and commerce.

Role as part of the international trade network

Gedi was an important hub in a vast trade network across the Indian Ocean. Luxury goods from China, Persia, India and Venice were traded here, making the city a thriving international trading centre. This made Gedi a bridge between the East African coast and other parts of the world.

Unique architecture and urban planning

The uniqueness of Gedi's architecture and urban planning is also an important reason for its inscription as a World Heritage Site.

Structure of the inner and outer walls

The city plan of Gedi is clearly divided into inner and outer walls, with the inner wall housing large houses and public buildings for wealthy residents, and the outer wall housing homes and farmland for the middle class. This structure reflects social stratification and the division of space.

Water Management Systems and Infrastructure

Gedi had an advanced water management system, evidenced by in-house toilets, wells and sunken courtyards. This infrastructure improved the quality of life in the city and indicates that Gedi's residents enjoyed a high standard of living.

Relationship with the local community and spiritual significance

Gedi is also important to the local community. Today, members of the Arab and Swahili communities still come to perform ritual prayers at the mosque, and traditional herbalists also visit Gedi to collect medicinal plants, ensuring that Gedi continues to serve as the cultural and spiritual centre of the region.

Integrity and authenticity assessment

The integrity and authenticity of Gedi are also factors that enhance its value as a World Heritage Site.

Preservation status and management efforts

The structures at Gedi are generally in a well-preserved state and are regularly monitored and maintained by the National Museums of Kenya (NMK). Conservation activities such as vegetation control and restoration of structures are carried out using traditional building materials and methods.

Strengthening legal protection and management systems

Gedi has had legal protection since 1927 and is currently protected by the National Museum and Heritage Act, and efforts are underway to continue to safeguard Gedi's heritage values through strengthened legal protection and management systems at local and national levels.

The combination of these factors recognises that the Old City and Archaeological Site of Gedi is of outstanding universal value as a World Heritage Site and its protection and preservation are essential.

summary

The old town and archaeological site of Gedi was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2024 for its historical and cultural value, unique architecture and urban planning, relationship with the local community, and its integrity and authenticity. Through the heritage of Gedi, we can understand the rich history of Swahili civilization and its importance in international trade.