Location and site

Lamu town is situated on Lamu island north of Mombasa (225 miles) Conservation Area, Lamu town, Kenya.

Urban morphology

Lamu Old Town was founded during the 12th century. The town setup and the architecture reflect different stages of development with Arabic influences of stone buildings within the inner city of Lamu, and extension areas within the peripherals of the town. Asian/European architectural significant buildings dominate the waterfront as a result of the reclamation of land from the sea in the early 19th century. Lamu’s natural harbor has a distinct value to the settlement and availability of fresh water.

Buildings are mostly constructed of local building materials such as quick lime for mortar and finishes, hardwood (terminalia) for structural/slab support, and the unique interior design of buildings that are more inward-looking. Narrow streets are formed between clusters of buildings that have multi-functional uses of communication, as well as play, and meeting places for the Community. The covered streets are built as extra occupancy to either side of parallel-formed houses and act as communication areas for women between the houses during the daytime.

Registration criteria

Criterion (ii): The architecture and urban structure of Lamu graphically demonstrate the cultural influence that has come together there over several hundred years from Europe, Arabia, and India, utilizing traditional Swahili techniques to produce a distinct culture.

Criterion (iv): The growth and decline of the seaports on the East African coast and interaction between the Bantu, Arabs, Persians, Indians, and Europeans represent significant cultural and economic phases in the history of the region which finds their most outstanding expression in Lamu Old Town.

Criterion (vi): Its paramount trading role and its attraction for scholars and teachers gave Lamu an important religious function in the region. It continues to be a significant center for education in Islamic and Swahili cultures.

Source: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1055/