KASUBI TOMBS

Probably the most prestigious historical, traditional and cultural site in Uganda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001. The tombs of the Buganda kings, located on the Kasubi hill, represent a major symbol of the identity and culture of the Baganda people. Their architecture, combining traditional techniques and vernacular innovations, illustrates the history and spirituality of one of East Africa's most important communities. Formerly the palace of the Buganda kabaka, it was transformed into a mausoleum in 1884. Four sovereigns (Mutesa, Mwanga, Daudi Chwa II and Mutesa II) are buried here. The Muzibu-Azaala-Mpanga, with its impressive domed roof, reflects the handicraft heritage handed down from generation to generation. Built mainly from natural materials (thatch, wood, reeds, palms, etc.), it sadly went up in smoke in 2010 following an arson attack whose perpetrators were never identified. At the time, the site was listed by Unesco as an endangered heritage site. The restoration project began shortly after the fire, with the help of UNESCO, the Ugandan government and the local community. As the heart of the sanctuary was not ravaged by the fire, the tombs remained intact. Restoration of the building (31 metres in circumference) was finally completed in the summer of 2023, taking the site off the endangered heritage list. Despite some ongoing final touches, guided tours have been resumed.