Malindi Museum
The Malindi Museum, also called the House of Columns, is a gateway to Kenya’s coastal past. The museum sits inside a beautiful 19th-century building, a place that has seen Malindi change over the years.
Inside, visitors can see photographs, artifacts, and relics that tell the story of Malindi and the Kenyan coast. There are displays on Swahili civilization, the Mijikenda people, and objects from early Arab settlers. The museum also has collections related to Vasco da Gama and the Portuguese, showing Malindi’s role in ancient trade routes.
Marine life plays a big part in the exhibits too. A section dedicated to fish species of the Indian Ocean includes the Malindi Coelacanth, a prehistoric fish thought to be extinct until it was rediscovered. The museum is a great place to step back in time and see how cultures and nature have shaped this coastal town.
Historical Background
- The Bohra community originally owned the building, later selling it to Thomas Alfree for £2,000.
- In the early days, it functioned as the Malindi Native Civil Hospital, providing healthcare to local communities.
- It later became the Kenya Marine Fisheries Station, where researchers studied fish and ocean life.
- The building later housed Kenya Wildlife Services offices before being handed over to the National Museums of Kenya in 1999.
- After restoration, it opened to the public as the Malindi Museum on May 10, 2004.
The Building’s Architecture
The House of Columns is an architectural gem, reflecting influences from Swahili, Indian, and European styles. Its coral stone walls and carved doors make it a striking sight along the Malindi seafront.
- A double-story structure with a tiled roof, located near the Malindi jetty and fish market.
- Thick coral stone walls, built using lime mortar, giving the building a sturdy, traditional coastal feel.
- Four entrances, each unique—two on the east, one with a Gujarati-style wooden door, another with a Swahili carved door.
- The northern entrance has a small Indian trap door, a detail rarely seen in coastal architecture.
- A southern wooden staircase leads to the first floor, opening onto a balcony with round columns, creating a shaded outdoor space.
- Inside, thick wooden beams, Bajuni-style doors, and an open terrace give visitors a glimpse of the past.
Malindi museum is a living piece of history, built with materials and techniques that have defined Swahili architecture for centuries.
Things to See and Do at Malindi Museum
There is a lot to see inside the museum, from ancient trade relics to marine wonders. Every corner tells a different story about Malindi’s role in history.
Artifacts from the Swahili Civilization
Old tools, carved doors, and objects used by early settlers.
Mijikenda Cultural Displays
Traditional musical instruments, clothing, and sacred wooden totems.
Portuguese and Vasco da Gama Relics
Historical records and items from Malindi’s early encounters with European explorers.
Marine Life Exhibits
Information on the Kenyan Barrier Reef and the fascinating Malindi Coelacanth, a deep-sea fish once thought extinct.
Archaeological Finds
Ship anchors, wooden pulleys, and objects recovered from old shipwrecks.
Views from the Terrace
A spot to look over Malindi’s coastline, just as traders and explorers did centuries ago.
Nearby Attractions
A short walk leads to Vasco da Gama Pillar, the Portuguese Chapel, and Malindi’s Old Town, all linked to the same rich history.
Explore the Past, One Tale at a Time
Malindi’s past is etched into its walls, its artifacts, and its coastal breeze. Wander through ancient corridors, discover marine wonders, and trace the footsteps of explorers. Let history unfold as you explore Malindi’s hidden stories!
Malindi Museum Faqs
What is the Malindi Museum known for?
The Malindi Museum, also called the House of Columns, is a cultural and historical center showcasing Malindi’s past. It features exhibits on Swahili heritage, Portuguese influences, and marine life, including the famous Malindi Coelacanth. The museum also serves as Malindi’s Tourism Information Centre, helping visitors explore nearby historical landmarks.
When was the Malindi Museum building constructed?
The exact construction date is unknown, but historians estimate it was built in the late 19th century. The building’s architecture matches styles found in old towns like Lamu and Mombasa, suggesting it was constructed during the same period. Over the years, it has served as a hospital, fisheries office, and wildlife office before becoming a museum in 2004.
What can visitors see inside the Malindi Museum?
Inside, visitors can explore historical artifacts, old photographs, Swahili doors, and cultural relics. There are also marine life exhibits, including displays on Kenyan coral reefs and deep-sea fish species. Temporary exhibitions are often held, adding new insights into Malindi’s history and coastal environment.
How many entrances does the Malindi Museum have?
The museum has four entrances, each reflecting different architectural influences. Two are on the east side, one featuring a Gujarati-style door and the other a Swahili-carved door. A northern entrance has a small Indian trap door, while the southern entrance leads to a balcony via a wooden staircase.
What other attractions are near the Malindi Museum?
Visitors on Kenya Safaris can explore the Vasco da Gama Pillar, Portuguese Chapel, and Malindi Old Town, all within walking distance. A single ticket grants access to all three sites, making it easy to experience Malindi’s historical landmarks in one day. The museum is also close to the Malindi jetty and fish market, adding to its vibrant surroundings.
When did the Malindi Museum open to the public?
The building was handed over to the National Museums of Kenya in 1999, and after restoration, it officially opened as Malindi Museum on May 10, 2004. Since then, it has become a hub for history lovers, researchers, and tourists looking to learn more about Malindi’s past and its connections to the wider Indian Ocean trade network.
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