Historic Towns of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara, Tanzania | Africa’s Cultural Landmarks

Video Description

Off the coast of present-day Tanzania, Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara are testaments to centuries of global cultural exchange and maritime wealth. Built from coral stone and shaped by Swahili, Arab, Persian, and Indian influences, the architectural remains of these cities have endured continuous erosion from rising sea levels, wind, and sand. Through powerful visual storytelling and thoughtful local perspectives, this documentary shares the initiatives to preserve these historic mosques and palaces for future generations. This film is part of Africa’s Cultural Landmarks, produced by The Metropolitan Museum of Art in collaboration with World Monuments Fund. This documentary series directed by Sosena Solomon examines some of Africa’s notable cultural landscapes and their continued relevance to local communities. This initiative introduces new content that reframes The Met’s new Arts of Africa galleries. Learn more about the Historic Towns of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara here: https://www.metmuseum.org/perspectives/kilwa-kisiwani-songo-mnara Subscribe for new content from The Met: https://www.youtube.com/user/metmuseum #TheMet #Art #TheMetropolitanMuseumofArt #Museum © 2025 The Metropolitan Museum of Art