Culture and History

On Thursday we visited 3 of the 4 sites in the Malindi Historical Circuit. When the Kahindis lived in Kilifi we had to drive about an hour to do any sightseeing or shopping. Now they live right in Malindi so it's much easier. 

#1 Vasco de Gama pillar. In the 15th century, Vasco de Gama came to Kenya. The chief in Mombasa refused to help him but the chief in Malindi was friendly to him and sent a local sea captain to help him on his way to India. He set up this pillar to signal to future ships that this place is friendly. 

The tide was out so you can see the reefs in the background. 

#2 Portuguese Chapel. This chapel was first built by Vasco de Gama for the Christians that he left in Malindi. It has been rebuilt and used by various peoples since then. 

#3 Malindi Museum. This building has historical exhibits and literature exhibits. We learned about the origins of the people that now live in this area of Kenya. The Mijikenda are the ancestors of the Giriama tribe which is the tribe of Rodgers family and many of the students we work with. 

They also had beautiful artwork. This one is my favorite: 

We ended our tour at the Malindi tourist market.