A section of Fort Jesus in Kenya. Photo credit: Disanthegioi
Fort Jesus, Kenya
Built in 1596 by the Portuguese, Fort Jesus is one of the few remaining ancient structures in Kenya. It is located on Mombasa Island in coastal Kenya and assumes the figure of man when viewed from a bird’s-eye view.
Although the site has so far been passed on to nine owners, it remains one of the best preserved ancient sites in Kenya and Africa in general. It is also a perfect example of the 16th-century Portuguese military architecture.
Fort Jesus, which currently serves as a major tourist attraction site in the country, was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011. The site is considered a testament to the first successful attempt by the West to influence the Indian Ocean Trade.
