2004 and 2006 World Monuments Watch
With its vast architectural remains, abundant wildlife, and idyllic location, the ancient port of Mtwapa is one of the most important sites on Kenya’s Swahili Coast. Occupied between a.d. 1100 and 1750, the site, 25 kilometers north of Mombasa, covers approximately eight hectares. The site provides an important window on the evolution of town planning and the commercial development of coastal Kenya. Since the site’s abandonment more than two centuries ago, its perimeter wall has cracked in numerous places and is on the verge of complete collapse. Coral used in the construction of the building walls has suffered from exposure to the elements, a situation aggravated by growth of moss. Perhaps the greatest threat to the once-thriving port is real estate development, as Mtwapa has become one of Kenya’s fastest growing beach resort areas.
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