Discovering the Malindi Museum: A Journey Through Kenya’s Coastal Heritage
Tucked along the sun-kissed shores of Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast lies Malindi, a town steeped in centuries of trade, cultural exchange, and colonial encounters. At the heart of this historical tapestry sits the Malindi Museum, a treasured institution preserving the town’s rich past and its vibrant coastal identity. Housed in the iconic House of Columns, the museum offers a compelling introduction to Swahili culture, colonial history, and the marine wonders that define this stretch of the Kenyan coastline.
A Historic Landmark: The House of Columns
The building that hosts the Malindi Museum—House of Columns—dates back to 1891. It is one of the oldest buildings in Malindi. Originally constructed by Adulhussein Gulamhussein, a wealthy merchant of Indian descent, it has served various roles over the decades—from a general store to a district hospital and fisheries office during British colonial rule.
In 1991, it was gazetted as a national monument. In 2004, it officially opened as a public museum managed by the National Museums of Kenya. Today, the building stands as a beautifully preserved piece of history, instantly recognizable by its white-washed façade and distinct columns that give the building its name.
Exhibits and Cultural Collections
Step inside, and you’re greeted with exhibitions that transport you through time. The Malindi Museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts and stories from the Swahili, Mijikenda, Taita, and other indigenous communities of the Kenyan coast. Some of the standout displays include:
- Traditional Swahili Instruments and Furniture – Showcasing the coastal aesthetic and cultural influences from Arab, Persian, and African interactions.
- Marine and Fishing Tools – Reflecting Malindi’s Long-Standing Relationship with the Indian Ocean.
- Historical Maps and Documents – Including colonial maps and navigation tools used by early European explorers.
- The Malindi Coelacanth – A preserved specimen of a rare prehistoric fish species discovered off the Malindi coast in 2001. This deep-sea find shocked scientists and added international intrigue to the museum’s holdings.
A Ticket to Four Heritage Sites
A single ticket to the Malindi Museum offers access to four major heritage sites within the town:
- The Malindi Museum (House of Columns) – The main museum building and gateway to local history.
- Malindi Heritage Complex – A newer annex with rotating exhibitions on Swahili identity, language, and traditions.
- Vasco da Gama Pillar – One of the oldest European monuments in Africa, erected by the Portuguese explorer in 1498.
- Portuguese Chapel – Built in the early 16th century, it is believed to have served Portuguese sailors and missionaries.
This interconnected ticket structure encourages visitors to explore Malindi as a living museum, where history is embedded in every street and structure.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours: Daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: Reasonably priced, with discounts for students and locals
Location: On the Malindi seafront, next to the Malindi Law Courts
Accessibility: Easily reachable by foot from most hotels in the town center
Other Nearby Attractions
Beyond the museum circuit, Malindi offers more cultural and natural attractions:
- Arabuko Sokoke Forest Reserve – A biodiversity hotspot for birdwatchers and conservationists.
- Marafa Depression (Hell’s Kitchen) – A stunning geological formation with canyons and colorful rock formations.
- Malindi Marine National Park – Known for its coral reefs, snorkeling, and glass-bottom boat tours.
Plan Your Visit With Us
The Malindi Museum is more than just a historical building—it is a doorway into the soul of the Kenyan coast. From the Portuguese explorers to the Swahili merchants and the mysterious deep-sea Coelacanth, every exhibit tells a story worth hearing. Whether you’re a history lover, cultural traveler, or simply curious, this museum promises a meaningful experience.
